Part B:
> 1) what method do you use to join the 40 pound test running leader to
> the 20 pound test class tippet? Double surgeon's, loop to loop- but
small.
> Or sometimes a blood knot.
> Trim well and make sure the knot is tight. A pre-made bimini will have a
> loop.
>
> what knots do you use to install the ball
> bearing swivel between the class tippet and the 80 pound test shock
tippet?
>
> Double surgeon loop on class, and improved cinch-knot on 80#
>
>
> 2) What length is the class tippet? See above. Sport fishermen can slide
a
> clear piece
> of larva lace over the class tippet to protect it from abrasion. Not IGFA
> approved.
>
> 3) what is the quick-loop knot at fly? is there another name for this
knot?
>
> tie a box-knot first, then tag end thru eye, back thru loop, around leader
> and back thru loop.
> MUST tighten box knot before pulling on tag end. VERY quick- for 20-100#
> test. Uses up a lot
> of leader when changing flies, but that leader suffers a LOT of abuse on
> just one fish,
> and needs to be shortened anyway. Just put on more when it gets to 18" or
> so. Saw the knot in a bluewater
> mag and it didn't have a name. Just don't pull the tag end first-
emphasis
> on 'don't '.
>
> On 150# test and above, I use black (only!) wire crimp-sleeves for shock
to
> swivel (black). Anything in the
> water on the taut line that leaves a cavitation trail (a big knot or a
> bright swivel or crimp)
> when a big fish is streaking across at 40 mph is fair game to a toothy
fish
> that mistakes it for a small
> fleeing baitfish. They will bite at the 'head' and cut your line off, so
> use SMALL knots and loops.
> A silver crimp at the fly is not as critical and adds a little flash to
the
> fly, like he's chasing dinner, too.
> If you're only casting to billfish (not trolling), lose the swivel and
make
> sure that the grabber
> knows what class tippet is. Catch and release is another story.
>
> I am amazed at the amount of backing (700 yards) for the 14 weight outfit.
> It must be quite heavy!
>
> Again, the 14wt rig is for fighting, not so much brute strength, but
> endurance. It is a BEAR to cast!
> I've never been spooled, even with 3 sails and two marlin hooked up. I
> boated 2 of the sails
> and one of the marlin. The sail I lost had me out 500 yards and something
> cut the class like a knife.
> The marlin I lost bent the hook, a 6/0 Owner.
>
> Hope this helps.
> DonO
>
> Thanks again Don...................Neville Gosling, Greater Vancouver,
B.C.
>
