Nail Knot
When to Use This Knot
A specialized fly fishing knot used to connect the fly line to the leader butt section. The Nail knot creates a smooth, compact connection that passes through rod guides easily and retains about 90% of line strength. It gets its name from the nail or tube used as a tying aid.
How to Tie a Nail Knot — Step by Step
Lay the end of the fly line, a small nail or hollow tube, and the butt end of the leader parallel to each other with about 6 inches of overlap.
Pinch all three together (fly line, nail, and leader) about 2 inches from the end of the fly line.
Wrap the leader butt section back toward the end of the fly line, making 5-6 neat, tight wraps over the fly line and the nail.
After completing the wraps, pass the leader butt end through the space created by the nail or through the hollow tube.
Carefully slide the nail or tube out while holding the wraps in place.
Moisten the knot and slowly pull both ends of the leader to begin tightening the wraps around the fly line.
Pull the standing leader and the fly line in opposite directions to fully tighten the knot.
Trim both the leader tag end and the fly line tag end close to the knot. Apply a coat of flexible cement or UV knot sense for a smooth finish.
Tips for a Better Knot
- A small hollow tube (like a coffee straw) is easier to use than an actual nail and works just as well.
- Keep wraps tight and neat — sloppy wraps will create a bumpy knot that catches in the guides.
- Use heavy leader butt material (25-30lb) for this connection, as it provides a better grip on the slick fly line coating.
- Nail knot tools are inexpensive and make this knot much easier to tie on the water.
- Apply UV-cure knot sealant for the smoothest possible finish that glides through guides.
Best Line Types
Monofilament
Standard nylon line. This knot works well with mono's inherent stretch and grip.