Knots
Fly Line to Leader Leader to Tippet Tippet to Fly
The big fish found in the rivers listed here will put your knots to the test. Once you hook a 4+ lb trout, your knots become the most important part of the picture. A good drag system and sensitive rod tip are also important, but a faulty knot will get you every time. If you've ever lost a nice fish and then found that your tippet or leader-end looked like a pig-tail, don't fool yourself into thinking "it broke me off"; a bad knot cost you that fish! A true break-off is a clean cut in the line, usually (because of today's strong, thin tippet material) right above your tippet-leader connection. Some of these knots can take awhile, especially if you're in the water. So, it pays off to check your leader the night before you head out. If the leader is worn or has become too shortened after several tippet changes, tie your new leader on at home on a table; it has better lighting and more comfortable a place to attempt a new nail knot. A couple years ago, I began using small plastic cast connectors (also called 'leader links') in place of the nail knot. These little gems can save you a lot of wasted time and headache and they seem smoother thru the line guides. I have used both blood and surgeon's knots with equal success to attach leader to tippet. I have found a few resources stating that the surgeon's is stronger connection. Regardless of which knots you choose, if you intend on catching large fish, make certain that you take your time and tie them properly.