A better knot

[Teamanglerx]

I currently use a improved chinch knot for tying the fly to the tippet. I have trouble tying it to smaller flies (16+) and to flies with stuff in the way of the eye (san juan worm, elk hair caddis). Does anyone have a suggestion for another knot I could use?

[WANTONJ]

Hi Teamanglerx,I use the uni-knot,it is easy and strong,it makes a very small compact knot,it is also good for adding on a new tippet, I hope this will help.

have a good and safe day.

Wayne Valley Fire Service,Valley Springs Calif.

[tie one on]

I would like to suggest trying the nonslip loop knot. Check out www.flyfisherman.com. They have a video section about half way down on their website you can view someone tying the knot. Choose the "view all" tab, then pick knot tying. This nonslip loop is good for smaller flies. In fact, the front cover for the newest Fly Rod & Reel shows a small fly that a trout had taken that shows the knot I'm suggesting.

Tie One On------------------------<*))))))><

[jose]

Teamanglerx,

I had some trouble at first with that knot on small flies also when I first started. I found that by using more line, it became a lot easier. I was trying to use very little tippet at first and using more made a big difference, especially when coming back through the loop- that last step.

[axle27]

I use a Polamar Knot. It's quick and you can tie it in the dark, for the most part. Takes a fraction of the time an improved cinch knot takes.

[Frank Whiton]

Originally Posted by axle27

I use a Palamar Knot. It's quick and you can tie it in the dark, for the most part. Takes a fraction of the time an improved cinch knot takes.

Hi axle27,

The Palomar Knot is a great knot and is used a lot by Bass fishers. I use it a lot with size 1 to 7 hook. I don't think it would be a good choice for tiny nymphs or dry flies. Due to the double line through the hook eye it might get a little bulky. Maybe not with a 7X tippet. I have never tried it.

Frank

[hardhat]

I will usually use a loop or clinch knot. However, I have found that by using a Ty-Rite, SR the task become easier.

[Kai]

Here is something that I use to tie my improved clinch knots:

I have my hemostat attached with a swivel so it will turn freely. I clamp the hook of the fly in the hemostat, thread the hook, then just twirl the hemostat around a few times, keeping it clamped. Much easier than trying to pass the line over itself. Keeping the hook clamped makes the whole process easier.

[axle27]

Frank,

You're right. I've not tried it on something that small.

Kai,

I use the hemo's constantly for making cinch's. It's much, much easier.

[Frank Whiton]

Hi to all,

I was surprised by Kai's photo. I have never considered putting forceps on a zinger but it looks like a good idea the way Kai shows. I have never lost a pair of forceps so I guess my way works too.

I pick up all small flies at the hook bend with forceps so the fly is in line with the forceps. I grasp the forceps by the barrel and spin it between my thumb and fingers and then finish the improved clinch knot. I like this method better than tying real small flies with the forceps completely.

Frank