One of the first knots any angler should learn to tie is the clinch knot. In this video, Anglers All crewmember Collin Heyerdahl demonstrates the proper way to tie a clinch knot, with a few tips for consistency and strength. The clinch knot is most commonly used to attach a fly onto the tippet.
What’s The Difference Between Fluorocarbon and Nylon?
Speaking of tippet, one of the most common questions we receive here at the fly shop is the difference between fluorocarbon and nylon tippet materials. We thought this would be a great opportunity to outline the pros and cons of each one. The first thing many anglers notice is that fluorocarbon tends to be more expensive than nylon. Is it worth the upgrade? When does it make sense to spend the extra money on fluorocarbon?
These are great questions. Each material has its own strengths. And there are certainly times when the less expensive nylon is a better choice. As a general rule, fluorocarbon tippet is the preferred material for nymphing, especially when fishing tailwaters, low-water situations, or anywhere you find picky trout. Fluorocarbon is much less visible in the water, making it a far better choice for those technical situations. Fluorocarbon is also more abrasion resistant and longer lasting than nylon. Fluorocarbon is also much stiffer than nylon, especially at higher break strengths. Combine fluoro's abrasion resistance with its rigid construction, and you have a leader/tippet material that is perfect for fishing streamers of all sizes. Plus, it sinks. These factors make it a better overall choice whenever you’re fishing beneath the water’s surface.
On the other hand, nylon tends to be the better choice in many dry fly fishing situations. Because nylon floats, it will help keep dry flies on the surface where they belong. Plus as we’ve mentioned, it’s cheaper. So if you plan to fish dry flies or even just below the surface in non-technical situations, nylon would be the best option. One exception to the dry fly rule would be situations when you’re fishing small dry flies in calm water to selective fish. In a situation like that, we’d actually recommend going with fluorocarbon. Its tendency to sink below the surface will help hide the appearance of the tippet for those delicate surface presentations.
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If you have questions or need help, don’t hesitate to ask! If you’re in Denver or along the Front Range, you can visit us at the fly shop in Littleton. Otherwise, give us a call at 303-794-1104 and we’d be glad to lend a hand. All orders over $10 placed here on the website or over the phone will receive free priority shipping.
