FS Digest

I’m having issues with creating a smooth enough nail knot between my line and leader. It never seems to be able to get through the last few guides without pulling on the end of the tippet. This is extremely problematic, especially when the fish tries to run right as I’m about to bet it. Do you all have any tips on how to create a smoother nail knot/is there a better knot for this situation?

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by bigballerman69

FS Digest

Try a blood knot, you can trim the tags on it completely flush. Also get some UV resin or knot sense to make a smooth coating over the knot.

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by ElstonGun

FS Digest

If you have a bobbin for fly tying and heavy thread(3/0 or bigger), you could either “whip a loop” in the end of the line or using a similar technique, use the thread to smooth out the nail knot connection. That’s what people did before welded loops were a thing. Google “whip loop flyline”

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by kentarpon

FS Digest

Unfortunately, the vid is in German, but I guess you will understand the principle. I highly recommend putting a drop of super glue when fasting the knot:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zkYl4EXBD0

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by idnok

Larry B Loc: Key Largo, FL

Try a double uni knot very strong and ends up small

Cleemartin Loc: Hampton, Virginia

The smoothest, narrowest line-to-line knot is the FG knot; slides thru all the guides without any hitches.

MtFlyTyer74 Loc: NW Montana

bbm69,

Poorer vision, less nimble fingers, and unreliable knots brought me to look for alternatives. The 2 items listed below are easy to install, never catch in a line guide, and are inexpensive & reliable. Both styles come in clear, and florescent....and, as a bonus, the florescent color works well as an indicator when nymphing.

Leader Links at: http://www.leaderlinksflyfishing.com/
or
Anglers Image Fly Line to Leader Cast Connectors (a Google search will take you to the item at Cabela's
or Bass Pro Shop).
or
"No Knot" eyelets are also still on the marked, but over the years fly lines have evolved to the point where the barbed eyelets are pretty difficult to install...once in they work great. (a Google search should find them).

Tight lines & dry waders,
Bill

FixorFish Loc: SW Oregon

On any fly line that hasn't a built-in loop, already, I use Rio's braided loops (4 pack,$5.95 at Sportsman's Warehouse)... sorta like a Chinese finger puzzle. Haven't had any slippage or lost any fish ..... for THAT reason, anyway.....lol.