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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"Surgeon Knot"

Purpose:  The "Surgeon Knot" is used in fly fishing to tie leader sections of different diameters together.  (As a substitute for the "Blood Knot", it is easier to tie, particularly for the thinner diameter tippet sections of a leader.)

Step 1:  Hold the existing (thicker) material in your left hand and the new segment (thinner) section in the right hand; overlap the two materials about 6"; grasp both pieces in the thumb and index finger of your left hand near the tag/left end of the new section; 

Step 2:  Using both strands of material and tying with your right hand, make a simple overhand knot, going from left-to-right; pull both pieces of material through the resulting loop all the way out to the right;

Step 3:  Now do that same thing again; simply tie another overhand knot inside the same loop with your right hand, with both sections, going from left-to-right; pull both materials all the way through the loop;

Step 4:  To begin tightening, pull on all 4 strands at the same time; finish up by tightening the two tag ends; (we recommend moistening the monofilament in your mouth to restrain friction/weakening as the knot is tightened;)

Step 5:   The last step is to closely trim both tag ends of the two sections;

If you want to add realism, wait until it's dark outside, and a few hundred bugs are flying around your eyes & fish are rising everywhere . . . 

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