ESSENTIAL FLY FISHING KNOTS
Arbor Knot
An Arbor Knot is a type of fishing knot commonly used to secure a fishing line to the spool of a reel. It is particularly useful for attaching the line to the arbor (the central spindle) of the reel, preventing the line from slipping or unraveling during use. This knot is often favored for its reliability and simplicity, as it can hold the line tightly in place, even under pressure from big catches.
Nail Knot
The Nail Knot is used to join two lines of different diameters and allows for line diameters to diminish down to the fly. It is useful for attaching your backing to the fly line, and your fly line to the leader, or tippet.
Loop-to-Loop
A loop to loop knot is primarily used in fishing to connect two lines together when both ends have pre-formed loops, most commonly to attach a fly line's loop to the loop on a leader.
Perfection Loop Knot
A perfection loop is primarily used in fly fishing to attach a leader to the fly line, or to connect a fly to the end of a leader, as it creates a loop that allows for greater freedom of movement for the fly, especially when using large streamers; essentially, it's used whenever you want a strong, easy-to-tie loop connection between two lines.
Blood Knot
A blood knot is used to join two lines of similar size, such as tippet and leader, to build a tapered leader. The leader has a larger diameter at the end where the fly line is attached, and a smaller diameter at the end where the fly or hook is attached. The blood knot's strength and slim profile allow it to pass easily through rod guides during casting.
Double Surgeon's Knot
The double surgeon's knot, also known as the surgeon's knot, can be used to join lines of either equal or unequal diameters. Learn how to tie this quick and easy knot to connect your tippet to your fly fishing leader
Uni Knot
A Uni Knot is used in fishing to attach hooks, lures, or swivels to your fishing line, as well as to join two different fishing lines together, making it a versatile knot for connecting various tackle components to your line, regardless of whether it's monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braided line; it's considered one of the strongest and most reliable knots for various fishing situations.
Double Uni Knot
A double uni knot is used when you need to connect two fishing lines of similar diameter together, like attaching a braided main line to a fluorocarbon leader, essentially joining a leader to the main line, as it provides a strong and reliable connection between different types of fishing lines.
Improved Clinch Knot
An improved clinch knot is used when you need a secure and reliable way to attach a fishing line to a hook, lure, or swivel, especially when dealing with slippery lines, heavier lines, or situations where strong pulling force is expected; it's considered a versatile knot suitable for most fishing scenarios and can be used with various line types like monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided lines.
Davey Knot
A Davy Knot is primarily used in fly fishing to attach a small fly to the end of a leader or tippet, especially when tying on tiny flies for trout, because it is a small, strong knot that wastes minimal material and is quick to tie; making it ideal for delicate situations where a large knot could hinder the fly's movement.
Non-Slip Loop Knot
A non-slip loop knot can be used whenever you want a fly to have more action in the water.