Nail Knot

How to Tie the Nail Knot

1. Hold the fly line, nail (or small tube), and leader butt section parallel.
2. Wrap the leader butt around all three (line, nail, leader) 5-6 times.
3. Thread the leader butt through the tube (or along the nail channel).
4. Remove the nail/tube carefully.
5. Pull both ends of the leader to tighten the wraps around the fly line.
6. Trim closely and apply a small drop of flexible cement.

Pros

• Very smooth profile that passes through guides effortlessly
• Strong and permanent connection
• Standard for fly line to leader connections

Cons

• Requires a tool (nail, tube, or needle)
• Difficult to tie on the water

Best Used For

Permanently connecting fly line to leader. A fundamental fly fishing knot.