For most fishing situations, our knot of choice is the non-slip mono loop knot. We use it to attach flies to tippet for everything from trout, to bonefish, to king salmon. It’s strong, dependable, and allows for good action on the fly.
However, the non-slip mono loop can be a bit bulky and sometimes a smaller, more discreet knot is beneficial. Think tiny flies, pressured trout, finicky bonefish etc. In fact, some anglers think the key to fooling big, smart bonefish is to be as discreet as possible and therefore opt for a less ‘bulky’ knot such as an improved clinch knot, even though it is not quite as strong.
Can bonefish tell the difference between the knot we use? We’re not sure, but we’re not too proud to give them the benefit of the doubt. Luckily, our good friend and seasoned bonefish angler, Wayne Walts, showed us a new knot that is not only stronger than the clinch knot, but smaller as well (check out the photo below). We’ll admit, we were a bit apprehensive at first, but after some not so scientific strength testing, we’re sold on it. Its called the Becker Knot (aka the Orvis Knot), and we’re big fans. For detailed instructions on how to tie, click here!
The Becker knot looks very similar to the Davy and the double Davy knot.
I have seen 10lb steelhead landed on the Davy knot and I have landed very respectable trout with it. It should be every anglers bag of tricks.
Next time I am in salt water, I will give it a go there as well.