Knots are critical. A well tied knot is the key to landing a lifetime trout. You can do everything else right, but if one of your knots fails the expletives heard across the land as that trophy trout swims away are legendary.
I use “Animated Fishing Knots” as a guide. It’s a good app and easy to follow. Of course, you can always Google the knot you want.
In our course we practice and use the knots I use on the river. These are tried and tested but there are so many options, opinions and debates about which knots are best. For my purposes on the Bow River and local streams, these knots have served me well. Of course there are always debates on which knots are better and stronger. Yes I use some other knots, but these are the basics and I’ve used these on thousands of flies and rigs with very little issue.
You’re going to need to practice these until they become second nature. As a sports fan, I often tie knots while I’m watching the game.
Best Practices for Fly Tying
Here are some best practices for while you’re on the water:
- Check your knots after you play a fish or get hung up.
- Make sure the knot is still strong by giving it a good yank.
- Check for abrasions on the leader and tippet. If you’ve good a rough spot, change it out. A weak line will likely snap the next time there is any tension.
- Always moisten your knots before you cinch them tight.
- Leave yourself plenty of line to work with, especially when you’re learning.
Top Four Knots for Fly Fishing the Bow River
1. No-Slip Loop Knot
Image courtesy of FlyFisherman.com
2. Improved Clinch Knot
Image courtesy of 101Knots.com
3. Surgeon’s Knot
Image courtesy of Orvis.com
4. Tie-Fast Knot Tyer™ Nail Knot
Image courtesy of Fishing.org
I have a couple of these Tie Fast brand tools for Nail Knots. There are plenty of nail knot tools out there to choose from.
To learn more about Fly Fishing and to book an adventure on the Bow River, view our current fly fishing trips.