Curious on peoples opinions…
Lets say you are running a 5x knotless tapered Leader but want to jump down to a 3x tippet for some smaller stuff.
Can/do you simply tie on some 3x to the end of the 5x section or do you throw a small section of 4x on and then your 3x?
3X is larger than 5X, but yes, I will down size tippet to make a tapered leader and better presentation on dries.
Start with the number 9, then subtract the X number for a general idea of lb.
Generally, I will step down one X size,but I have gine 2 X sizes. I use a Triple Surgeons knot or a Blood Knot.
But I prefer Furled leaders where I am able to attach one foot to six feet of 3x, 4X, 5X, or 6X tippet and still get fantastic presentation without tapering the tippet.
When starting out, buy a 4X leader, then attach a foot or so of 4X tippet. When you get to this knot, tie on more. Then tie 5 or 6 Xon for smaller flies if you need too.
If nymphing or streamers, I don’t worry as much about tapered leader.
3X is larger than 5X…
Oops that is what I get when I am posting quickly before I rush off to a meeting. You got my point though.
This came up when I was playing with a tippet ring and had to jump down a size and was curious about just putting a 6X on with the 4X leader on the other side.
Gotcha. I do 4X to 6x.
In short yes.
I use a tippet ring after my 9’ 4x tippet gets down to the thicker section. Then I tie on what length I need/want of 5 6 or even 7X.
Great thanks for the replies.
That is the answer I was hoping for.
Ya for sure! I start off tying 5x to my leaders and just add tippet as necessary… I use fluero 99% so in my experience it doesn’t really make a difference. What you should do is buy some of Joni’s furled leaders then it doesn’t matter what size you tie on!
generally speaking you can jump two sizes in tipet. so 4x to 6x or 3x to 5x this should work fine.