Understanding Fly Tippet: Essentials For Success
What is Fly Tippet?
Tippet is a crucial component in fly fishing, serving as the final section of the line that connects your fly to the main fly-fishing line. Typically made of monofilament or fluorocarbon, it comes in various diameters and strengths to match different fishing conditions and target species. Its role is vital as it affects the presentation of the fly and the fish’s ability to detect the line. It is also the line that is lost or broken off the most in fly fishing.
Knots Used to Tie Fly Tippet
When attaching fly tippet to your line, the choice of knot can significantly impact your success on the water. Here are three popular knots used by anglers:
Improved Clinch Knot: This is a classic knot that offers strength and reliability. It’s simple to tie and works well for connecting tippet to a fly or hook. The improved version adds an extra twist to enhance strength and reduce slippage.
Double Surgeon’s Knot: Ideal for joining two pieces of tippet or connecting tippet to the leader line, the double surgeon’s knot is easy to tie and maintain strength. It’s particularly useful when you need to extend your tippet length.
Loop Knot: Used to create a loop between the tippet and fly, the loop knot allows for better movement of the fly, mimicking natural behavior. It’s beneficial when targeting species that are sensitive to the tippet's presence. 
Why Invest in Biodegradable Tippet?
Choosing biodegradable tippet over traditional non-biodegradable options is an investment in both environmental stewardship and long-term fishing enjoyment. Here’s why it’s a smart choice:
Environmental Impact: Non-biodegradable tippet, typically made from synthetic materials, can persist in the environment for centuries, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife. In contrast, our biodegradable tippet, Biotip, is designed to break down in only 6-7 years when exposed to natural elements, reducing its environmental footprint.
Wildlife Safety: Fly fishing often takes place in pristine natural habitats. Non-biodegradable tippet that ends up in the water can entangle or be ingested by wildlife, causing harm or even death. Biodegradable tippet minimizes this risk, promoting a healthier ecosystem. Between 2002 and 2015, two California wildlife clinics treated almost 3,000 birds for injuries caused by fishing gear, the Audubon Society reported in 2019. Additionally, on average 460,000 miles of fishing line in lost to the ocean each year!
Sustainability: Using biodegradable tippet aligns with sustainable fishing practices. By choosing eco-friendly options, anglers can help preserve natural resources and maintain the beauty of fishing environments for future generations. Instead of fishing becoming more of a problem for the environment, it can be made more of a solution.
Conclusion
Fly tippet is a small but essential part of your fly-fishing setup, and selecting the right knots ensures reliable performance. On top of that, investing in biodegradable tippet like Biotip is a step toward more responsible fishing, balancing your angling needs with environmental care.