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.