STEP
1
The Swirl Knot
demonstrated by Tom Knoth
The Swirl Knot is my favorite Fly-to-Tippet connection for small to medium size flies. I typically use it whenever dealing with tippet of 4x or smaller diameter. Once mastered, this knot can be tied in 15 seconds or less.
STEP
1
Pass at least 12 inches of tippet through hook eye.
STEP
2
With end of tippet, form an overhand loop over the standing line.
STEP
3
Overhand loop is tightened to form a knotted loop.
STEP
4
Reach through the loop and grab the hook. The hook is than pulled through the loop.
STEP
5
Hook is now completely pulled through the loop.
STEP
6
By pulling away from the hook with both the tag and standing line, the swirl knot is formed. I hold the hook with right hand, pull on standing line with left hand, and pull on the tag with my teeth.
STEP
7
Lubricate the entire loop (run it through your mouth), and than slowly pull on standing line to tighten the swirl knot. If you tighten too quickly you may "burn" and thus weaken the tippet. If you have tied the knot correctly, you will notice that the tag of the knot will pop sideways during the tightening process. The tag is than trimmed for the completed Swirl Knot.