The How-To Knot Library

Lesson #3: Darrel's Tarpon Loop

(The names listed here are debatable and, in some cases, doubtful.... Author assumes no liability, fault nor is subject to legal action.)

OK, so we've got the knot to attach tarpon bite tippets to our leaders (Lesson #2: Easy Allbright). But what about tying the fly to the leader? Sure, we can use the Non-Slip Loop knot (Lesson #1), but that leaves a large knot and, most importantly, tends to create a bend right at the knot.

One of the tenets of tarpon fishing faith is that the fly must track straight, without rolling or leaning, for the fish to eat it. If the leader is bent or kinked at all, the fly won't track straight.

That's where this loop knot excells. It provides the freedom of movement of a loop knot, but the way the knot seats keeps the leader dead straight, and the fly riding high and pretty... which is what the silver king wants.

Step 1:

Step 1: Make a double over-hand knot in the bite tippet, leaving about 3 inches of tag end to complete the knot. You'll also need a pair of plyers and something to hold the hook tightly as you tighten this knot.

Step 2:

Step 2: Twist the knot until it makes this figure-eight shape.

Step 3:

Step 3: Pass the tag end through the hook eye and back through the figure-eight. Pay attention that it passes over the twisted line (the correct way would untie the knot if the fly wasn't there).

Step 4:

Step 4: Pass the tag end through the other openning in the figure-eight. Again, pay attention to which side of the twisted line this is on. It should be on the opposite side as the first pass, and would again untie the knot if the fly wasn't there.

Step 5:

Step 5: Pull on the tag end until it tightens the knot.

Tarpon Loop: Page 2 >>>

If you have questions or comments on knots or these knot instructions, or to book your own Cayman bonefishing trip please use our Inquiries page or email guide Davin Ebanks directly at davin@fish-bones.com.