Sometimes you need to attach another line above the end of your main line. This can be done with a Dropper Loop knot and it will not weaken the line much. It will also not slip and let the line slide to the end of the standing line. It's used in fly-fishing, saltwater fishing, and freshwater fishing.

When to Use the Dropper Loop Knot

Use the Dropper Loop knot to attach a dropper line for a fly off the side of the leader, to attach a line above the sinker to move the bait away from the line on casting and spinning outfits, and to add a leader for a hook above the end of the line to keep the bait and hook off the bottom. The second two methods are useful when fishing rocky bottoms in both fresh and salt water. You can slide a slip sinker (a sinker with a hole through the middle) on the end of the line and peg it in place. Tie your hook to a line off the dropper knot and you can pull the lead off if it gets hung and not lose your hook and bait.

When fly-fishing you can tie a short dropper line off your leader well above the fly you're fishing and attach a dry fly that will dabble the surface like a mayfly or other insect laying eggs. This often works on reluctant trout to get them to hit because this isn't something they see often. And the dropper keeps the fly just at the surface or above it, keeping the trout from getting a good look at it.

For saltwater fishing a spreader rig (see Chapter 9) can be made by tying two of these knots above the sinker tied to the end of the line. Use heavy leader material and the droppers will stand out from the main line spreading out above the bottom. This is a good flounder rig.

How to Tie the Dropper Loop Knot

To tie the Dropper Loop knot:

• Make a loop in the line where you want the Dropper Loop to be.

• Pull the line from one side of the loop through the loop, keeping your finger in the original loop.

• Make five or more turns around the standing line with the loop you just formed.

• Push the end of the loop you're holding open with your finger through the new opening.

• Hold the line pushed through with your teeth and wet the knot with saliva.

• Pull both ends of the line away from the loop while continuing to hold it with your teeth.

• Release the loop and pull the ends of the line hard to tighten the coils evenly.

FIGURE 8-11

Tying a Dropper Loop knot.

FIGURE 8-12

A finished Dropper Loop knot.