How to Choose the Right Size Tippet

There are many people across the world who actively participate in the sport of fly fishing. Becoming an excellent fly fisher requires a combination of skill and great equipment. One particularly important piece of equipment for fly fishing is the tippet, which is the strand of synthetic material that connects the leader of the fishing line to the fly. Selecting the right size tippet can mean the difference between a productive fly fishing trip and a disappointing one.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what size and type of fish you will be attempting to catch during your fly fishing session. Choose a thicker tippet for larger fish and a narrower tippet for for smaller species.

    • 2

      Find out what the condition of the water will be in the area where you will be fishing. Choose a wider tippet if the water is brackish and cloudy, a narrower tippet for clear waters and a size that falls in the middle for average water conditions.

    • 3

      Find out what the wind conditions and water movement will be on the day and in the area where you will be fishing. Choose a wider tippet if the wind conditions are any stronger than a light breeze and the waters are moving rapidly. Choose a narrower size if the wind is light or there is no wind and the waters are very calm.

    • 4

      Test the tippet by attaching it to a leader fishing line and tying on a fly. Make sure that the fly is not too large for the tippet. Perform a few test casts to see how the tippet holds up.