CONTENTS:
CONNECTING FLY LINE TO LEAD: KEEP IT EASY – KEEP IT SAFE!
One of the great mysteries for outsiders when it comes to fly fishing is and remains the fact of how you can catch fish at all with the comparatively thick fly lines. 😉 In your fly fishing career you have probably been asked more than once whether the fish are not more likely to be frightened by the clearly visible fly line and how you can attach the delicate flies to such cables at all. As fly fishers, we know that we need the not-so-thin fly line primarily for casting. To fool the fish anyway, not only the right fly is necessary, but also a leader that, on the one hand, has the necessary strength, but on the other hand, is still inconspicuous enough so that the fish is not disturbed by it and turns off at the last moment.
That's why we want to show you in this short service blog:
- That there are fly lines with and without prefabricated loops
- That the different types of loops can each have advantages but also disadvantages
- That there are at least two variants for quickly and easily create a perfect connection to the leader also for fly lines without a front loop
- Which experiments we would rather advise against
We would also like to give you a few practical tips to minimise the wear and tear on leaders and thus also the need to constantly tie new leaders to the fly line.
1. FLY LINES WITH PREFABRICATED LOOPS
Fly line manufacturers are making things easier for us fly fishers, because a number of fly lines come ex works already with a small loop attached at least at the front tip, which makes it much easier to connect the fly line to the leader. Let's take a look at the two variants of prefabricated loops and their respective advantages and disadvantages:
1.1. COATED LOOPS
The majority of loops found on fly lines today are so-called coated loops. In these loops, the core of the line forms a small loop that – like the rest of the line – is coated with a material that gives the line its floating or sinking properties, as well as its taper, weight and surface texture. Since the loop is also coated in this type of line, it naturally has the same properties. If it is, for example, a floating line, the loop will of course also float just as well. And sometimes the slightly thicker area of the welding is used to print the essential information about the line type, so that you know at a glance which fly line is on the respective spool.
End loop of a fly line where the line core is coated
However, the coating is most exposed to wear in the area of the line tip and especially the loop. This is also because this area is somewhat stiffer and has to pass through the tip ring at an unfavourable angle when fighting a fish. In addition, leader in fine diameters can cut into the coating under the appropriate load and affect it. In addition, the loop and the short section of the welded seam add mass at certain points, which is particularly noticeable when fishing with light lina classes, and can compromise smooth line roll-off during presentation and unobtrusive lifting of the fly line from the water.
1.2. EXPOSED LOOPS
In order to at least partially compensate for the disadvantages of coated loops, some models have loops with an exposed or naked core. This makes the loop smaller and more compact overall, and therefore less bulky.
Here, the loop is formed by the exposed line core. This way it is much smaller and less conspicuous
Unfortunately, it is impossible to prevent the exposed core of the fly line from absorbing water. This affects the floating behaviour, for example, and thus the and the line has a slightly higher weight in certain places when casting.
1.3. LOOP-TO-LOOP CONNECTION
Regardless of the type of loops your fly lines have or whether you prefer coated or ‘naked’ line loops, to connect the leader to a fly line that already has a loop, there is actually only one method that we use, and that is the so-called loop-to-loop connection.
Loop-to-loop connection: simple, fast, secure
In this case, the two loops of the fly line and leader are connected by looping them into each other. This loop connection is easier and faster to make than explained. The picture above shows you the end result. The resulting connection:
- is very durable
- can be undone if necessary, for example if you want to change the entire leader
- cuts less into the coating of coated loops than if you tie the leader directly to the loop
Of course, we can also recommend the optimal knot for attaching a perfect loop to the end of the leader:
1.4 PERFECTION LOOP KNOT
This is a case of nomen est omen, because we believe that the Perfection Loop knot is the ideal loop knot and offers a range of advantages that will help you when connecting fly line and leader:
- the perfection loop has a very high load capacity
- the knot itself is quite compact and therefore glides easily through the tip ring
- it is easy to tie even at the water's edge
- the connection itself is knotless, the loop remains spread and can therefore be released more easily if necessary, so that a leader change is possible at any time
This video shows you how to tie the Perfection Loop:
2. FLY LINES WITHOUT A LOOP
But not all fly lines come standard with a loop at the tip of the line. However, it is also possible that this loop may wear out over time (see above) and you may need to trim the line a little, thereby also removing the factory-applied loop, in order to continue fishing with it. That is why we would like to take this opportunity to show you two methods that you can use to create a durable and simple connection between the fly line and the leader, even if there are no loops.
2.1. BRAIDED LOOP CONNECTORS
If a loop is not attached at the factory, then it makes sense to retrofit the fly line with one. So-called braided loops or braided loop connectors are ideal for this. Some manufacturers also call them loop on junctions.
Braided loop connectors are available in different colours and sizes
These consist of a braided hollow tube with a small loop attached to the front end. If you have equipped your fly line with such a braided loop connector, the connection to the leader works in the same way as previously seen with the factory-made loops.
Loop-to-loop connection works just fine for connecting these braided loops to the leader
These connectors are mounted by simply sliding the hollow tube over the tip of the fly line. When pulled, the braiding contracts and uses the ‘clamp principle’ for a firm connection with the fly line. These braided loops are available in different colours. Variants with eye-catching, highly visible colours help you to keep a better eye on the tip of the fly line, which is particularly important when nymph fishing. The neutral, white models are less conspicuous, which is beneficial when fly fishing with a dry line, but can be coloured with marker pens if required and can therefore also serve as a visual aid.
In this short video, we show you how to attach the braided loop connectors to the fly line:
So simple – so good. In order to achieve optimal results the first time and to avoid unpleasant surprises at the water's edge, we would like to give you a few more tips on how to use these braided loops correctly:
- Braided loop connectors are available in different diameters. Make sure that you have the right size for the respective line class. Connectors that are too small/tight are difficult to fit, and those that are too large may not hold well. In addition, the different sizes usually also have different breaking strengths. This means that you can find the right model for everything from dry fly fishing to streamer fishing and heavy fishing on the coast and for salmon.
- Some of the braided loops are quite long and it can be useful to shorten them a little before mounting without losing durability. This can be particularly advantageous with fine line classes, because braided loops also change the weight and thus the properties of the line when casting. In addition, the area where the braided tube sits on the fly line becomes somewhat stiffer.
- When shortening, use only sharp scissors that cut cleanly without fraying the braided sleeve.
- You should also take the necessary care when pulling it onto the fly line to avoid fraying as much as possible. This is because the protruding fraying causes unnecessary friction when the connector has to pass through the tip ring.
- When the loop is in position, secure the rear edge with a drop (as little as possible, as much as necessary) of superglue or, even better, a special UV glue, which remains flexible even after curing. This has three advantages:
- The braided sleeve can no longer fray
- The glue creates a secure, permanent connection that cannot come loose unintentionally
- By applying the glue only to the rear edge, the rest of the braided sleeve remains relatively flexible.
The UV glue FLEX from Solarez remains flexible even after curing
Some models of braided loops also come with plastic tubes to secure the end of the braided loop that has been pushed onto the fly line so that it can no longer fray. Apart from the fact that it is not that easy to slide the tube into the correct position after mounting the braided tube (if you slide it over the braided tube, you have to repeat the entire assembly), it thickens and stiffens the area more than a drop of glue. In addition, it slips less well through the tip ring. We feel more comfortable with the adhesive option and have never had a problem without the tube.
Full-length braided loop connector with mounted plastic tube. Perhaps a little "too much" when fishing with fine rigs trying to achieve delicate presentations
2.2 NAIL KNOT
A more classic approach to connecting a fly line to a leader without a loop is to use a nail knot. In contrast to the methods presented so far, this method creates a permanent connection that is not so easy to undo and does not allow the leader to be replaced easily. However, this solution has other advantages:
- the nail knot ensures a direct, linear and force-locked connection that optimally transfers the casting impulse from the fly line to the leader
- the knot is comparatively small and slender because the fly line is not looped, as it is with the Albright knot, for example, so the nail knot can easily slide through the tip ring (especially if it is coated with a thin layer of UV glue, which remains flexible even after it has set).
- The connection is light and absorbs practically no water, so it does not change the properties of the fly line and does not affect the casting process. That is why the nail knot is still the method of choice for many fans of fine and light fly fishing to connect fly line and leader.
In this video, we show you step by step how to tie the nail knot in no time at all with the help of a handy tool. Don't be confused by the title; the nail knot is just as suitable to attach the leader to the fly line as it is for the backing:
3. DIY SPLICING AND WELDING
Of course, you can also find all kinds of tips and tricks on the internet for connecting your leader to your fly line. But in addition to the methods already shown here, you will also come across content that shows you how to strip fly lines yourself using acetone to splice the line core yourself, or how to weld loops yourself using a hair straightener (for women) and heat-shrink tubing, provided you hit the right temperature.
Based on our experience, we can only advise you: if you are not a gifted tinkerer who simply enjoys trying new things and is willing to risk ruining your newly acquired fly line in the process, you are better off leaving it alone. In our opinion, this little guide will help you find a simple, proven, practical and durable connection between the fly line and the leader for all situations on the water.
4. IMPROVE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR LEADER
Last but not least, we would like to show you two more ways to prevent your mounted leader from being shortened a little each time you change flies or get it caught on something, meaning you have to change it prematurely. With the loop connections shown, a leader can be quickly replaced with a new one. But with a simple trick, you can actually extend the lifespan of your leaders. Do not use a continuous leader from the fly line to the fly, regardless of whether you prefer a knotted or knotless leader. Instead, use a two-part system with a fixed leader and an easily replaceable leader tip. This foremost part of your leader, also known as tippet, can be easily replaced if necessary, for example if it has become too short due to frequent fly changes or a snag. This way, you can also more easily vary with different lengths and optimally adapt to the respective environment. The rest of the leader remains at its original length. The following two methods are particularly suitable for this:
4.1 TIPPET RING - MICRO RING
These small and durable tippet rings, also known as micro rings, weigh practically nothing, therefore have no influence on the properties of the leader and have a smooth surface that does not damage the knot. Simply tie one of these rings to the tip of your leader (for example with an improved clinch knot) and also attach the fine leader tip to the ring. When changing the fly, only the tippet is shortened. Even when snagged, the thin tippet usually gives way. With some rigs, a small side arm can also be tied to the tippet ring, for example for a second nymph.
The practical, small, robust tippet rings make it easy to change the tippet
4.2. LOOP-TO-LOOP CONNECTION
We have already presented the second variant above, but it is also perfect for connecting the leader and tippet. To do this, tie a small Perfection Loop at the front end of your leader and also on one side of the tippet. You can now loop the two perfection loops together, creating an unobtrusive and durable connection between the leader and the leader tip, which can be undone if necessary, for example if the tippet has become too short and you want to replace it with a new one.
For this type of connection, the leader and tippet are ideally made of the same material, i.e. nylon and nylon or fluorocarbon and fluorocarbon. Otherwise, the harder fluorocarbon may cut through the softer nylon under load. In this case, you are better off using a micro ring.
Loop-to-loop is also ideal for connecting the leader and tippet
5. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CONNECTING FLY LINE AND LEADER
The best method depends on whether your fly line already has a front loop. In most cases, a loop-to-loop connection is the simplest, fastest and most reliable solution.
There is no single best solution for every situation. Loop-to-loop connections are ideal for quick leader changes, while the nail knot is especially slim and offers excellent control for delicate presentations.
A loop-to-loop connection is ideal when both your fly line and leader have a loop. It is strong, quick to make and allows you to change the entire leader easily whenever needed.
The nail knot is a good choice for fly lines without a loop or whenever you want a particularly slim, permanent connection. Many fly fishers prefer it for light and delicate dry-fly fishing because it has very little impact on casting and presentation.
For looped connections, the Perfection Loop is one of the best choices because it is compact, strong and easy to tie. If you want to attach the leader directly to the fly line, the nail knot remains one of the most reliable options.
Yes. Bulky or stiff connections can interfere with clean turnover and reduce the quality of the presentation. That is why compact, well-tied and neatly finished connections are always worth the effort.
They make leader changes very quick and straightforward. They also eliminate the need to tie more complex connection knots directly onto the fly line.
Coated loops have the same coating as the fly line itself and usually float or sink in the same way as the line. Exposed core loops are smaller and less bulky, but the exposed core can absorb water over time.
Braided loop connectors are attachable loops used on fly lines that do not have a factory-made front loop. They allow you to create a practical loop-to-loop connection without tying directly into the fly line.
The connector should match the line class and diameter of your fly line. A connector that is too tight will be difficult to fit, while one that is too large may not hold securely under load.
A flexible UV resin is usually the best choice because it secures the connection while remaining elastic after curing. Superglue can also be used, but it should be applied sparingly.
Yes. A worn or damaged loop can be cut off and replaced with a braided loop connector or another suitable connection. This often allows you to keep using the fly line for a long time.
Slim connections such as a well-tied nail knot or a compact Perfection Loop pass through the guides with very little resistance. Large or stiff loops, on the other hand, can create more friction.
For beginners, the loop-to-loop connection is usually the easiest option. It can be made in seconds and allows you to change leaders without tying complicated knots at the water.
It is worth checking the connection before every fishing day. Damaged loops, frayed braided connectors or loose knots should be replaced immediately.
The front loop is exposed to repeated casting, fighting fish and passing through the rod guides under load. Fine leaders can also cut into the coating of coated loops when pressure is applied.
Leader loops are usually tied directly from the leader material itself. A clean Perfection Loop offers high strength and a compact profile with both nylon and fluorocarbon.
Yes. If nylon and fluorocarbon are connected directly, the harder fluorocarbon can sometimes cut into the softer nylon under load. In such cases, a tippet ring or micro ring is often the safer solution.
A two-part system with a fixed leader and a replaceable tippet is the most practical solution. This way, only the tippet is shortened when changing flies or after a snag, while the main leader keeps its original length and taper.
Tippet rings allow you to replace the tippet quickly without repeatedly shortening the main leader. They help preserve the original leader taper and are especially useful for frequent fly changes.
Yes. Two small Perfection Loops create a strong, discreet and removable connection between leader and tippet. Ideally, both parts should be made from the same material.
For very delicate presentations, many experienced fly fishers prefer slim connections such as the nail knot or very compact loop systems. These interfere less with turnover and help the fly land more softly.
For nymph and streamer fishing, a loop-to-loop connection is often very practical because leaders can be changed quickly. This is especially useful when conditions, fly size or fishing depth change during the day.
The most common mistakes are using oversized loops, poorly matched braided connectors, badly tied knots or damaged connections. A clean, compact and regularly checked connection improves both casting performance and security when fighting fish.
Braided loop connectors, tippet rings, flexible UV resin and high-quality leader materials are especially useful. They help you create durable, clean and practical connections without unnecessary complications.
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