Tying a Nail Knot

The Nail Knot requires a small diameter nail, paper clip or similar object about twice the diameter of the fly line. Using a small tube makes the knot easier to tie.However, since we couldn't find a tube, nail or straw at the time of this, Ben substituted them with a pair of pliers (this is a good plan if you carry some with you and cannot find the other objects!).

Step 1:
Here, Ben sets the leader in the pliers and secures it.

Step 2:
Make 5 snug wraps around the pliers, leaving enough space between the teeth to sneak the leader and fly line through.

Step 3:
After making your wraps, thread the leader through the wraps by pushing it between the teeth of the pliers.

Step 4:
Now thread your fly line through the wraps. You may need to open the teeth of the pliers more depending on how thick your fly line is.

Step 5:
Gently pull the wraps off the pliers with the leader and fly line strung though. Be careful to not unravel the wraps.

Step 6:
Tighten the knot by gently pulling on each end of the leader. (Don't pull on the fly line yet!) Moisten the knot, inspect knot for smoothness, and tighten the knot by pulling simultaneously on both ends of the leader. Then, pull hard on the fly line to seat the knot. When the knot is seated securely, trim the leader tag end and the fly line end.

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