Leaders

[Blueridgeflies]

Does anybody know if you can use a leader with twisted base section? I was looking at the fips rules but wasn't really sure about it. The back half is simply doubled over then twisted to for a permanent loop. Just an idea I had been toying around with but wasn't sure if it was allowed.

[HoochBuster]

Nothing braided is allowed per Fips. What you are referring to sounds like a simple braid of sorts, so I wouldn't bring it I a comp.

[Blueridgeflies]

Yeah it is a simply braid, thank for clearing that up. I read the rules about it but couldn't quite figure if it applied to that. Are you allowed to have a loop on your fly line? (whether a built in or added)

[OLC55]

I believe that factory made loops on your fly line are legal, but the leader cannot have any loops. I could be wrong, but that's the way I understand it.

[Blueridgeflies]

What about if you go in and add loops to the line. A lot of my lines have them added (they didn't originally come with them) for faster leader change. I am just trying to figure out whether it is even worth while have some of my extra gear with me. With the leader you can have one loop and that is all. (Fips rule 27.2 last part). I only remember that because the loop is the only method I use.

[benvan]

only factory line made loops. No modifiications to a factory fly line can be made, ie adding loops etc. For most of our comps we simply dont check that rule, just clinch knot to the loop instead of a loop to loop connection with the leader. For other competitions, be prepared with another line or getting rid of that loop connection.

[Col. Forbin]

You can add a loop to your fly line if it wasn't manufactured with one. You are allowed a single loop to attach your leader to the fly line (no loop to loop connections). If your fly line doesn't have a welded loop, you can add a small piece of mono/fluoro and tie perfection loop to function as that "single loop". Most folks nail knot a piece of 20lb. mono to the fly line, tie a perfection loop close to the fly line, and use that as their loop.

ARTICLE 26: COMPETITION FLY LINES.

26.1. Any factory made floating, sinking or sink tip lines may be used, except for lead core lines.

26.2. Competition fly lines must be a minimum length of twenty-two metres.

26.3. Shooting heads are not allowed.

26.4. Neither sinking nor floating devices may be added to fly lines.



ARTICLE 27: COMPETITION LEADERS.

27.1. A single monofilament leader may be used, of any length.

27.2. Leaders may be knotted or knotless, and continuously tapered down or level. A single loop may only be used to connect a leader to a fly line.
27.3. Neither sinking nor floating devices may be added to the leader.