The Loop to Loop Connection
Whether connecting backing to fly line, fly line to leader, or sometimes even tippet to leader, you will use the versatile loop-to-loop connection frequently. Pay special attention when closing the connection so that it forms a square knot and not a firth hitch, which can weaken the connection.
- Insert the loop of backing (created here with a double surgeon’s loop) through the loop of fly line (created here with a nail knot).
- Place the backing loop over the reel or spool.
- Continue over the reel and pull the backing loop through the fly line loop.
- Draw the connection tight. You may end up with a girth hitch, which will weaken the line. If so, simply dress the knot by flipping the loop of backing over from a square knot. Pulling snug.
Author
Joe Mahler is one of the USA's leading fly casting instructors and author and illustrator of “Essential Knots & Rigs for Trout” and “Essential Knots & Rigs for Salt Water”. You can Book a fly casting lesson with Joe via his website here