Here's where we're going to share with you some top tips on what we think... do... use... remember... or even sometimes forget... when it comes to fishing.
The list is not exhaustive by any means, we could have probably written many more but hope you'll see something useful that will help either improve your set up, technique or perhaps inspire you to let us know of an even better one that works for you. Please feel free to either absorb, share or ignore as you see fit.
- Which size tippet for which size fly?
Here's a simple example that works from the tippet end to the fly. Just multiply the tippet 'X' rating by 3, you can then add and subtract #2 fly sizes to find the upper and lower limit to use for that tippet rating.
Use this and other formulas as nothing more than a guide, they're unlikely to take into account the weight in a nymph or the bulk of a large dry fly for the same given hook size. Don't just go for ultra thin, you need some substance in the leader to help turn over a given fly.
- Pre-made tapered leaders ~ If you're intending to fish with a final tippet of 6X, purchase your tapered leader at 5X, then by adding 6X to complete it you'll further enhance the overall taper. (The higher the 'X' number, the thinner the material - the diameter of which can vary by brand)
- Make your own ~ Start at the butt section and make it approx 75% the diameter of the tip of the fly line. Pictured below are two very simple and commonly used tapers that'll get you started...
...and here's some info on connecting knots and more complex leader tapers.
- Tippet to Leader ~ To keep your tapered leader in tact when adding tippet, use either a perfection loop to loop or consider a tip ring... Yes!... I'll repeat that... a tip ring (They continue to work for many so don't just dismiss them out of hand)
- Adding a tip ring ~ They come in a variety of sizes so if your nimble and have good eyes then 1.5mm, if not then opt for 2.0mm or bigger. Thread a length of strong mono through the tip ring first, double it over and grip that to further attach your leader with ease.
- Dry Fly Tippet ~ Give your tippet some slack and avoid the straight & true. With the appropriate cast, make the most of a 'drag free drift' by using the supplest of materials for the tippet (Amongst others Stroft is high on the list for suppleness).
- Kept in the dark ~ If using a tender you expose your tippet to the elements, get an old draw string reel bag and cover them up when you aren't fishing. I know technology of such materials moves on at a pace that makes certain types impervious to deterioration but it won't do it any harm.
- Not forgetting ~ We couldn't really mention leader material without commenting on the disposal of it, there's some great gadgets out there to help you do the responsible thing... innovators amongst you have probably devised something using old film canisters, if not then go buy something like this Monomaster, or this, Fishpond Piopod. Just make sure you take it home.
- Finally ~ Although this one doesn't really fall under the leader and tippet category as such, it's at the business end for sure. Those of you that use desiccants & powders for drying flies, get onto an archery website and buy the Fletch Drying Powder instead, excellent stuff... you get more of it and it's a darn sight cheaper.
Just a thought, and remembering that a leader is what connects you to your fish, by putting as much effort and time into understanding your leader as you do the tackle and equipment you use to cast it, I have no doubt it will benefit you in the long run.
So there we go... you'll obviously now be relishing the opportunity to get out there and try them, you know it's certainly going to help make catching bigger and even more fish a doddle.
Next time we'll cojole another of our contributors into giving you some more... how about YOU?
Jim is a full time fly fishing instructor & guide running the Wiltshire Fly Fishing School