How to Use Your Tippet when Fly Fishing

For many beginning fly fishermen tippet is something of a mystery. Tippet is the fine leader material that attaches to your fly. Since most spin fishermen don't use tippet, people who are just starting to fly fish may get confused on how to use tippet. Proper use of tippet is an essential part of fly-fishing and better preparation will give you a better chance of catching fish.

First, we need to address the basics of tippet. Tippet is a fly fishermen's last piece of leader material. Use a blood-knot to attach a 3-4 foot section to a tapered leader. The tippet material should always be smaller than the leader material. Today there are many tapered leaders on the market and they are very convenient to use. Just remember to identify how fine your tapered leader is and use a piece of tippet that is equal or smaller then the fine end of the leader. Using a smaller sized tippet will ensure your line lays out properly during a cast. Using a heavier tippet then your leader will undoubtedly cause you casting problems.

Now you must determine what size tippet material to use. Tippet is measured in pounds, but is more commonly referred to by diameter. Diameter is measured and has a scale between 0x-10x, the larger the number the smaller in diameter. So 3x will have a larger diameter and heavier breaking point then 7x. Now when it comes to fishing I recommend never using tippet smaller then 7x. 7x normally has a breaking point around 1-2 pounds and anything lighter then that is to light in my opinion.

Tippet is a very fine material and you must choose the proper line to prevent your tippet from twisting. Most of us have encountered a twisted tippet that makes the line weak and prevents your fly from being properly presented. Twisted tippet is caused by using to fine of a tippet for the fly you are presenting. So how do you match the size of your tippet to the fly? Trial and error is one option, or always try to go heavier than you think is necessary. For dry fly fishing to trout you rarely need to go heavier then 4x. 4x would only be used to cast large dry fly like grasshoppers or stimulators. 5x is a good bet for dry mayfly and caddis patterns, but finer tippet may be necessary depending on the conditions. When fishing below the surface you normally want to go slightly heavier on your tippet because of the abuse it will take. Often weight is added and your line will be hitting stones and other things on the bottom. 5x is about as light as I would go when fishing below the surface.

Tippet is your final piece of leader that attaches to your fly, and since the fly is what catches fish tippet is very crucial. Only use fine tippet if the situation calls for it (which happens a lot), otherwise try to use the heaviest tippet you can to catch fish. It will help you land the fish quickly if you plan on releasing it and it will decrease the odds of your line breaking. Constantly changing tippet sizes is something all fly fishermen know to well, but properly sizing your tippet will lead to more fish.