Flies off of tag ends

[SimmsFlyGuy]

Hey everyone. I have a question regarding attaching flies to the tag ends of surgeons knots. Hopefully I can explain this so that it makes sense.

If I'm using a two-fly setup... per FIPS rules, can a fly be attached to the tag end that is already a part of my leader? For instance, if I have 4X tippet coming off of my sighter and I'm adding a smaller piece of 5X with a surgeons knot, do both flies have to be tied to the 5X or do I have the option of tying a fly to the 4X "tag"? (if you can even call this end a tag)

If this is ok per FIPS rules, what is your opinion on which end to choose? I notice that the knot results in one tag end pointing at an upward angle and the other at a downward angle. Also, I assume it would be best to have the heavier fly tied to the thickest diameter material since it will be contacting the stream bed more often.

Thanks

[Gatorbyte]

You can tie off the 4 x. In a dry drop situation, I prefer the dry on the heavier of the 2 Tippets. It helps keep it away from the leader and gives a better presentation.

[SimmsFlyGuy]

Thanks Bret! The FIPS rules are a bit vague.

[Joe A]

Originally Posted by SimmsFlyGuy

If this is ok per FIPS rules, what is your opinion on which end to choose? I notice that the knot results in one tag end pointing at an upward angle and the other at a downward angle.

I have read that the downward tag is stronger than the upward. I've also been tying in a tag to attach my split shot. It keeps the inevitable weakening of the tippet from mashing down or nicks from sharp edges off of the direct line to the fish.

[Dell Neighbours]

Originally Posted by Joe A

I have read that the downward tag is stronger than the upward. I've also been tying in a tag to attach my split shot. It keeps the inevitable weakening of the tippet from mashing down or nicks from sharp edges off of the direct line to the fish.

That all depends on the knot...with a surgeons the downward tag is stronger. You can use the upper tag on the orvis knot...