How to Rig a Fly Line for Trout

Setting up a fly rod may at first seem intimidating. The various lines, leaders, tippets and flies often discourages many people from even venturing into the sport of fly fishing. However, with some basic understanding and knowledge, the fascinating and enjoyable world of fly fishing can be enjoyed by just about anyone willing to make an investment of a little time.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly rod
  • Fly reel
  • Backing line
  • Fly line
  • Leader
  • Tippet
  • Flies (dry or wet)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach the fly reel to the rod by placing the reel in the seat located below the handle. Lock the reel into place using the lock rings which either rotate or slide into place.

    • 2

      Tie the fly line backing to the reel. Wrap the the backing around the spool two times leaving 4 to 5 inches extended. Tie an arbor knot to secure the line and clip excess from the knot before winding. Refer to the Orvis Animated Knot website for instructions on tying the arbor knot. Wind enough backing onto the reel to take up excess space and provide a cushion for the fly line. Refer to the owners manual for the reel to help in determining the amount of backing to use in conjunction with the fly line.

    • 3

      Attach the fly line to the backing using a nail knot. Refer to the Orvis Animated Knot website for tying instructions. Make sure that the fly line weight is matched to the weight of the rod. The rod will feature a weight such as five which indicates the line weight should also be five. Wind all of the fly line onto the reel as many lines may feature a taper or weighted section near the end of the line.

    • 4

      Tie a leader to the fly line. Once again, use a nail knot and refer to the Orvis Animated Knot website for easy to follow instructions. The leader must be matched to the fly line and to the size tippet to be used. Refer to the Orvis website on choosing a leader for more information.

    • 5

      Tie a several feet of tippet material to the leader using a blod knot. The Orvis Animated Knot website offers instruction on tying this knot. The tippet is a small diameter monofilament or fluorocarbon line which is the final link to the fly. The tippet is matched to the leader as well as to the size fly being used.

    • 6

      Tie a wet or dry fly to the tippet using an improved clinch. Depending on various conditions including season, weather, water level, water color, and even time of day, the fly chosen will vary greatly. Research the best choice of fly size and patterns on line and by talking with fishermen and outfitters located in the area to be fished.