1. Arbor Knot: Attaching the Backing to the Reel
The arbor knot is a slip knot in which an overhand is tied on the tag end of the backing, pass the backing around the arbor and tie another overhand around the standing part of the line drawing it closed but not tight. Pull on the standing part of line and the overhand knot slides down against the arbor. Keep pulling until the first overhand knot jams against the second one.
2. Albright Knot: Attaching the Flyline to the Backing
The Albright Knot is named for Capt. Jimmy Albright of Florida. It is excellent for connecting monofilament lines of unequal diameters. The knot can be very useful in connecting shock leaders.
3. Nail or Tube Knot: Attaching the Leader to the Fly Line
This knot makes a relatively smooth knot holding the leader to the flyline. A nail knot tool is usually necessary and can be found incorporated within many of the nippers sold within flyshops today. The tool replaces the need for a nail or tube.
4. Double Surgeon Knot: Attaching the Tippet to the Leader
The Double Surgeons knot is an easy way to join the tippet to the leader. It is basically a double overhand knot. Lay the two lines together with an overlap of 6 inches. Tie an overhand knot holding the two strands together, then tie another. The knot does leave a lump, even after the tags are trimmed tight. To get a more streamlined knot, try the Blood Knot. It is usually required when the monolines are of different diameters.
5. Improved Clinch Knot: Attaching the Fly to the Tippet
The Improved Clinch knot is one of the most common of fishing knots. The tag end is put throught eye of the hook and twisted around itself about 5 times. the tag is then passed between the first twist behind the eye and then through the loop it made. Always moisten the knot before clinching.
