Arbor Knot

• 1). Pull the free end of the fly line backing from a filler spool so that 6 to 8 inches extends past the spool of the fly reel.
  
  
• 2). Form a simple overhand loop with the free end of the backing line so that the loop passes around the main backing line. Do not tighten the loop down at this point.
  
  
• 3). Tie a second overhand loop below the first loop, this time using only the free end of the line.
  
  
• 4). Moisten both knots with saliva or water. Pull on the backing line to begin tightening the knots down against the spool of the reel.
  
  
• 5). Continue pulling the knots tight so that they lock securely against each other. Trim excess line from the free end of the knot with scissors or snips.
  
  

Improved Clinch Knot

• 1). Attach a fly to the tippet with an Improved Clinch Knot. Form the knot by feeding 6 to 8 inches of the tippet line through the eye of a fishing fly.
  
  
• 2). Pull the free end of the tippet up beside the main line above the fly. Wrap the free end around the main line 6 to 8 times forming a small loop above the the eye of the fly.
  
  
• 3). Hold the wrapped line securely and turn the free end down toward the fly forming an elongated loop beside the wrapped line.
  
  
• 4). Feed the free end of the line through the small loop formed earlier above the eye of the fly and then through the elongated loop beside the wrapped line.
  
  
• 5). Moisten the knot and pull down securely against the fly eye. Trim excess line from the knot with scissors or snips.