Fly fishing utilizes a weighted fishing line to allow for the majestic and artistic fly fishing cast. Without this specialized fishing line, it would be impossible to cast in this manner. Fly lines are tapered, with a thicker end towards to front that tapers down to a thinner section. This taper carries the weight and energy forward when casting, and allows for the loop to be thrown out to far distances.
An important part of fly fishing is the ability to tie the proper knots that will attach the specialized fly fishing line to other lines that are commonly used. Some common fly fishing line knots include the following:
- Arbor knot
- Albright knot
- Nail knot
- Blood knot
- Double surgeons knot
- Improved clinch knot
6 Critical Knots
The arbor knot is used to tie the fly line backing to the spool of the reel. This is a secure knot, and is a knot that will rarely be tested when fishing for small to medium sized fish. If you run all the way out of backing, you probably have bigger problems than the strength of this knot.
The Albright knot is a knot that attaches the backing to your fly line. It is a low profile knot that will smoothly glide through your guides should a fish decide to run on you.
The nail knot and blood knot are common knots used to attach your fly line to your leader, and allow you to tie two lines of different diameters seamlessly together. The nail knot is easier to tie, but both accomplish the same end.
The double surgeons knot is used to connect two lines of similar diameter together, like your leader to tippet material. An improved clinch knot is the fly fisherman's choice for attaching a fly to your tippet or leader.
All of these knots are important to your fly fishing setup. Be sure to master them so you don't waste time fumbling around while on the water. Also, be sure to bring along the right tools, like fly fishing nets, hemostats, and an abundance of flies. Having the right tools will make a world of difference!
Cinch Tyer - Tool Of Choice For Knots
One tool that will help you tie these knots is the Cinch Tyer. The Cinch Tyer is a small brass gadget that makes learning and tying these essential knots a breeze. With mine, I can tie the improved clinch knot in about 5 seconds once the line is threaded through the hook's eye. That is blazing fast! I used to be discouraged from switching flies when I wasn't catching any fish, but now I don't have any problem swapping my fly for a new one if I don't have any bites.
Learning the right knots will get you started and help you improve your efficiency on the water. Happy fishing!
Nate is an avid fly fisherman who writes for and manages Alaska Fishing Today, which is an online resource for all things related to fishing. For more information on fly fishing line knots, click the link. As always, thanks for reading and happy fishing!
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