How to Make a Leader's Knot for Fly Fishing

A leader's knot for fly fishing is an effective way of joining two sections of monofilament fishing line together or attaching a tippet, or fly end, to a leader. The leader's knot is a smooth and compact knot that will easily pass through the rod guides. This knot is a variation of the blood knot, which serves the same purpose. Though relatively easy to tie, it pays to practice the leader's knot at home before hitting the water.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail clippers or fly tying scissors
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Lay two lines parallel to each other, the ends overlapping by several inches. Take one end and cross it over the other line.

    • 2

      Wind this line three or four times around the other line and pass the end back through the loops that were formed.

    • 3

      Repeat the process with the other line, making sure to pass the end through the loop in the opposite direction to the first line.

    • 4

      Pull both ends of the lines together slowly forming a knot. Moisten with saliva and pull the knot up tight.

    • 5

      Clip or cut both tag ends close to the knot.