I am often asked, “What size tippet should I be using?” In our on the stream fly fishing schools this topic is discussed in depth. My rule: fly size divided by 3= your tippet in X. On the smallmouth rivers, you want to use flies that match the natural minnows. Therefore we are using flies in sizes 4 and 6. Size 6 divided 3= 2X tippet. Overall a Bright Butt 9ft 2X leader is a standard for the smallmouth bass fishing throughout the spring and summer. If the water levels get low and clear toward the end of the summer, I might switch to a 3X.
Tippet for Native Brook Trout
In the spring on the native brook trout streams, we are matching the naturals that the trout feed upon. Therefore, we are using flies that are sizes 14 and 16. Do you know what size tippet to use? A size 5X or 6X will get you through the native brook trout fishing all spring.
Why is it so important to use the right size tippet? Our leaders are tapered down and designed to get the fly where you want it. If you are using a small 5X tippet with a big bass bug, the leader will not cast correctly and will break off easily. So it’s very important to make sure the leader and tippet is correct for the size flies you will be using.
Incidentally, why does your fly break off when you set the hook? Any knot which is not drawn down tightly when it is tied, will slip thus cutting itself and break. Practice your knot tying before getting to the river and losing that big bass.