Nail Knot
Also known as:Tube Knot
Description
A compact knot used to join two lines of different diameters, commonly used in fly fishing to attach leader to fly line. Originally tied around a nail or tube for ease.
Common Uses
Attaching monofilament leader to fly line in fly fishing; joining leader to heavy shock tippet.
When to Choose This Knot
Choose this knot when connecting line to hooks, lures, swivels, leaders, or other line. Fishing knots are sensitive to line material, diameter, wetting, and how evenly the coils seat.
Safety Notes
- Wet monofilament or fluorocarbon before tightening to reduce friction damage.
- Trim tags only after the knot is fully seated and pull-tested.
- Use eye protection when testing line under tension.
How to Tie
- 1Lay a tube or nail alongside the fly line. Place the leader alongside the tube.
- 2Wrap the leader around the fly line and tube 6-8 times.
- 3Pass the tag end of the leader through the tube.
- 4Withdraw the tube and carefully slide the coils off onto the fly line.
- 5Pull both ends of the leader to tighten the coils around the fly line.
Common Mistakes
- Burning or weakening line by tightening too quickly while dry.
- Leaving crossed coils that cut into each other.
- Using a knot that is not suited to braided, fluorocarbon, or monofilament line.