Re: [VFB] Improved Cinch Knot

[Wes Wada]

KNOTS
http://www.orvis.com/orvis_assets/files/index.html (Flash required)
http://flyfisherman.com/skills/jb4knots/   (Borger knot tutorials)
http://www.killroys.com/knots/duncan.htm   (uni knot or duncan loop)
http://www.killroys.com/knots/knots.htm    (Killroy knot page)


This thread has been on VFB numerous times, and you can find additional advice in the site archives.

http://www.mail-archive.com/vfb@troutnet.com/

Personally, I love using a double uni knot for all my line to leader, leader to leader, and backing to line connections. Works easily, dependably. Haven't had a knot failure in years. Started out on the Dark Side tying blood knots until a flyfishing Jedi showed me the true way. Note: the Borger video on the "speed nail knot / nail-less nail knot" is actually a uni knot.

This knot is ideal for joining diverse materials of different diameter, stiffness, and slickness.  For example, you will have no problems connecting mono to fluorocarbon.  If you look at the knot, it is what I term a 'jamb' knot...you would have to pull one knot THROUGH the other knot to have the knot fail.  Just doesn't happen.

One of the advantages of the uni knot, also named the Duncan loop, is that you can create a slip knot loop connection to the fly allow free movement of the fly at the terminal end. That knot will tighten to the fly when you catch a fish or get a snag.  Simply use your fingers to pull the knot back open.

I also use the space between the two knots to trap poly yarn for an effective strike indicator.

The uni knot is also disgustingly dependable.  I have used this knot for the last 10 years or so, and can only point to a couple of instances of knot failure (caused by reckless, cross-eyed tying).  Finally, I saw an article by Dave Whitlock in which he said the uni-knot was his favorite knot, and that HE also uses it for everything... good enough recommendation for me!

Other folks swear by the surgeon's knot, the pitzen, and the Orvis.

The links above will give you a lot to try.

Wes Wada
Bend, Oregon