Fly Line to Leader

What methods are we using out there for lines that do not come with welded loops already installed?

This is a subject that has always interested me as there are so many ways out there with some coming with very staunch views.

I my self use a standard piece of 50lb braid about 20cm long attached to the fly line via a uni knot and tying a perfection knot on the other end. This allows me to swap leaders in and out by using a basic loop to loop connection. Total cost about 10c and will last a few seasons.

A braided loop like this I always superglue it don't rely on the sleeve alone. I also melt the end of the braided loop just very slightly to stop it fraying under the sleeve. The other way you can do it is get a small length say 2 inches of flyline backing. melt the ends of it to stop frayi, make a loop out of it and whip it to the end of flyline with a flytying bobbin then finish with flexible epoxy. Works OK for sinking lines.

Yeah, just put a pre-made braided loop on it. Sorted!

How do you find those Braided loops?

Never had a single one fail...ever. So pretty good!

The only small issue is that, over time, casting flex will cause the flyline to crack just behind the plastic cover. To prolong this I use UV glue (which is more flexible than superglue) to smooth out the join.

Once it goes, just cut it off, put a new one on.

Do they last ok (a season)?

My old man still ties his leader directly on to the fly line and swears by it.

I do like having a loop of sorts so that attaching an indicator is made easier.

Depends. How often do you fish?
Tying stright on is fine but the advantage of having loop-to-loop is quick changes to other leaders.

I rarely use indicators as can be a pain, by causing too much drag.

I get out only once a fortnight for a day, so not a heavy season by any means. Yea I agree about the loop-to-loop as this is what I have been using for the past 20 years.

Yea some times drag can be a problem, but when it is they are easily removed, mine usually also have a hook in them now as I have had many a trout strike it rather than the fly.