The Loop to Loop Connection
Skip the nail knot. Here's why we trust loop-to-loop connections for leaders, backing, and bite tippet alike.
The loop-to-loop connection is one of those simple, but really complicated things. Once you are comfortable making this connection, you can use it for all sorts of things. The most common use for the loop-to-loop connection is connecting your leader to the fly line. Gone are the days of having to know how to tie a nail knot just to go fishing. A loop-to-loop connection is also used when connecting your fly line to backing and it can be used to connect bulky bite tippet to your class tippet when fishing saltwater or for toothy critters.
There has been a lot of debate over this connection. Many anglers automatically cut the loops off their lines. We here at DUN use the connections for almost every fishing situation. We find these fail less for us compared to nail knotting the leader to the line. In fact, these connections have helped our lines last longer.
Most modern fly lines have loops on both ends. The loops allow for easier attachment of new leaders, or to the backing.
The loops can wear out over time. It’s important to check the condition of your loop to make sure the line is not cracked or wearing out. Properly making the connection is the biggest factor in ensuring the loops last.
Here are the steps to properly connect your leader to your fly line using a loop-to-loop.
First: Uncoil your new leader from the package. Successfully completing this step is the hardest part of making the connection.
Next: Take the pre-made loop in the leader and pass the fly line through it.
Next: Find the end of the leader and pass this end through the loop in the fly line.
Last: Pull the entire leader through the loop in the fly line and seat the knot. The knot should look like a square when completed.
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