Advertisement
How to Tie a Surgeon's Knot
The surgeon's knot is the fastest and most reliable way to join two fishing lines of different diameters — a must-know for connecting tippet to leader on any fly fishing setup.
How to Tie a Surgeon's Knot Step by Step
Step 1 of 5
Loading…
Use the buttons below to navigate.
Advertisement
Written Instructions — Surgeon's Knot
- Overlap the lines Lay both lines parallel with 6 inches of overlap, tag ends pointing the same direction.
- First overhand with both lines Treating both as one strand, tie an overhand knot — pass both tag ends through the loop once.
- Second pass — the surgeon's step Pass both tag ends through the same loop a second time.
- Pull all four ends Wet thoroughly and pull both main lines and both tag ends simultaneously to cinch tight.
- Trim tags Cut both tag ends to about 1/4 inch.
Tips for Tying a Surgeon's Knot
- Two passes is the minimum — the double wrap is what distinguishes this from a weaker overhand join.
- Pulling all four ends simultaneously is critical for even seating.
- Works for lines from 1 lb to 30 lb — the most versatile line-to-line knot for fishing.
- Leaves longer tag ends than the blood knot — trim close to prevent catching on guides.
Advertisement