Knots and leaders · 2 min read
Use a loop when the clinch fights you
Use a loop when the clinch fights you. Keep the focus on a small loop at the fly, and keep the water in sight while you do it.
Do it in order
Work from the near bank. Tie the loop, wet it, and see that the fly can swing. Then look up and see whether the plan still fits the place you are standing.
The usual miss
People lose time to a stiff clinch on a fly that needs to move. Retie, shorten, or reset. Do not negotiate with a setup you already doubt.
Leave only when the loop stays open and does not creep shut. Write nothing down unless that check failed.
This belongs with knots and leaders because the decision happens before you are committed to the cast.
A bank note, not a forecast or a rule sheet. Check the local regulations before you fish.