by L. Woodrow Ross

Created on: July 26, 2010

What could be simpler than putting line on a fly reel? Perhaps it is not as simple as it appears at first look. A little knowledge will help you to attach your line in a method that will assure proper performance.

The first consideration is to purchase braided backing to go on the reel first. Backing allows the angler to have more line and if a big fish make a sizzling, long run, the backing will allow more time for him to tire and you to turn him. The backing should be attached to the reel with an arbor knot. This knot is formed by first tying a simple overhand knot in the end of the line. Then loop the tag end around the reel arbor. Next, tie and overhand knot around the running line with the first overhand knot facing away from the arbor. Cinch this knot tight against the arbor. The first overhand knot prevents the end from slipping and make a secure attachment. Wind he backing onto the reel and you are ready for the next step.

The fly line is attached to the backing next. You have a choice of several knots. The Albright Knot is a good knot for attaching two lines where the diameter varies significantly. A nail knot is also a good choice. Both of these are very secure and will do a good job. Make sure that ends are trimmed closely so that line will feed easily through the guides of the rod. The knots can also be covered with fisherman's glue (super glue) for extra security. Some heavier cements may be used to make the knot smooth.

Attachment of the leader to the end of the fly line may be accomplished by using a Nail Knot, Albright Knot, or Needle Knot. Another method of attaching leaders is to use a short section of heavy monofilament and attach it with one of the three knots above to the fly line. Then tie a Fisherman's Loop or Perfection Loop into the end of the monofilament. Tie a Fisherman's Loop or Perfection Loop onto the butt end of the leader. Now, the leaders may be changed out by making a simple loop to loop connection to the fly line. This is a swift and easy method to use if you will be using leaders of different weights and lengths.

Tippet should be connected to the leader by the use of a Blood Knot or a Surgeon's Knot. Both are secure, but the Blood Knot is more compact and may feed through the rod guides more easily.

The last connection is use to attach the fly to the tippet. The Clinch Knot or Improved Clinch Knot are probably the most popular. The Improved version is stronger. Be sure when tying knots in monofilament to apply moisture before drawing the knot tight. If not, you risk "burning or fraying the line". This weakens the line and may result in a lost fish.

There are entire books that are crammed full of different knots that are good in various applications, but if you learn to tie the ones discussed here, you will find them to be adequate and very serviceable.

Learn more about this author, L. Woodrow Ross.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.