How to Tie Backing to Fly Line Knots

Fly line backing accomplishes two things: It takes up extra space on a fly reel so the line will flow out easier and it gives a margin of error when large fish are hooked. If the backing is to do its job, the knot joining the backing to the line must be small and smooth.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly line
  • Line backing
  • Nail knot tool
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the back end of the fly line. On a double taper line, both ends are identical so either end can be used. On any other type of line, the front end attaches to the leader and the back end attaches to the backing. It is important to know which end is which so you get the expected performance from your fly line.

    • 2

      Align the ends of the fly line and the backing.

    • 3

      Wrap the backing around itself, the nail knot tool and the fly line five times before running the end of the backing under the wraps. Use a nail knot tool to make this easier.

    • 4

      Slide the nail knot tool off and tighten the knot by pulling on the ends of the backing.