Fly fishing tips

How to Make a Tapered Leader

I asked my mentor, long-time fly fisherman and writer for Sporting Clays, Richard Owen, on the best way to construct a tapered leader.  Here are the instructions.

1. If you can’t tie a nail knot, start with a very small loop in the end of your fly line, that won’t slip

2. Purchase 3 spools of tippet material in 15lb, 11 lb, and 4 and a half lb. strength.

3.  Cut a 3 ft. section of 15lb. material and make a small loop in one end, that won’t slip.  Attach the two loops together (fly line and 15 lb tippet material).

4. Cut a 3 ft. section of 11 lb. material and attach it to the 15 lb. section with opposing, improved clinch knots.

5.  Cut a 3 ft. section of 4 and a half lb. tippet material and attach it to the 11 lb section with opposing, improved clinch knots.  You now have a 9 ft. tapered leader which will “turn over” nicely on the cast and is ideal for normal trout fishing.

NOTE:  For large trout like steelhead, it’s better to go with a 6 ft. section of 11 lb. test and eliminate the 4 and a half lb. 

Dan Bachman’s Speed Clinch Knot Tutorial

Hat tip to Dan Bachman of, Tattered Fly for this great demonstration on tying a speedy clinch knot.

Hot Tips From the World Championship

Fresh from the World Championships, Dan Bachman points us to tips from professional fly fishers.

1. Boil your leaders
2. Stay out of the water
3. Bow Casting
4. Light Tippets
5. Water Temp
6. Long rods
7. Fish are curious
8. Don’t bite your tippets
9. Keep your mind open and your mouth shut

For the breakdown of these great tips view the article, Tips picked up from the World Championships