Knots by purpose/function: backing-to-reel ~ backing-to-fly line ~ leader-to-fly line ~ leader-to-leader ~ leader-to-fly ~ loop knots ~ specialty knots 

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"Needle Knot"

Purpose:  The "Needle Knot" is used in fly fishing to affix the leader butt to the fly line.  It is an alternate knot for the "Nail-less" & "Nail" knots.

Step 1:   To tie this knot, you need a long needle (2 - 2 1/2") with a small eye.  (a) Center the needle on the end of the fly line; (b) push it into the end of the fly line about 1/4 to 1/2"; (c) exit the needle point through the top of the fly line; 

Step 2:  (a) Shave the butt end of the leader (the one you are tying to the fly line) with a razor blade to a fine point; (b) insert this end into the eye of the needle; (c) then pull the needle and leader through the top of the fly line (you will probably have an easier time if you use a pair of pliers or forceps to do this);

Step 3: Remove the needle, pull about 5-6" of leader through the fly line and reposition it so you can tie a regular "Nail Knot" ;

Step 4:  The last step is to trim the tag end of the leader (blue);

Step 5:  This knot is a variation of a "Nail Knot", with the advantage that the leader butt comes out straight from the end of the fly line (as opposed to coming out from the top of the fly line as in the Nail Knot); this provides a smoother connection.

To learn about an alternative to the use of this and other knots used in the connection of the leader to the fly line, see "Slip-on leader butts" in the glossary, or go to Slip On Leaders for further details.

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