Orvis Tippet Knot: How to Tie an Orvis Tippet Knot

The Orvis Tippet Knot is an excellent alternative to the Surgeon’s Knot if you are using a fluorocarbon tippet as it prevents breakage at the tippet knot. It’s also considered to be the most reliable knot for tying this type of tippet. It is called the Orvis tippet knot because it won a contest that was run by Orvis.

Table of Contents

How to Tie an Orvis Tippet Knot

Step 1

Align the leader and the tippet side by side with each other making sure that at least four inches overlap.

Step 2

Hold both of the lines between your index finger and thumb and double them back into themselves to make a loop. Hold the loop closed between your index finger and the thumb of your left hand.

Step 3

Thread the leader’s tag end and the tippet through the loop twice.

Step 4

Moisten the knot and pull the lines tight.

Step 5

Cut off the tag ends close to the knot.

Tips

Use your Hemostat to tie to increase your Orvis tippet knot strength.
Make sure you lubricate the line as you make the knot to strengthen it.

Orvis Tippet Knot v. Blood Knot

The blood knot is also used to tie two lines together, and the strength of the knot increases with five to seven wraps at each end. It is called a ‘blood’ knot because it used to be tied at the ends of whips or a cat of nine tails to draw blood as a slave or a prisoner was whipped. However, the Orvis knot is considered to be a better alternative because it is easier to construct in comparison.

Uses

It can be used to tie a tippet to the leader in all kinds of conditions.
It can be used to tie two fishing lines together.

Advantages and Disadvantages

This fishing knot is quite easy to tie, but it is considered weak with braid because it is prone to slippage.

Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a tippet be?

Typically, a tippet should be two to four feet in light or smaller than the diameter of the leader’s tip. That way, it can extend the life of the leader.

How strong is the Orvis Tippet knot?

The Orvis Tippet Knot is around 94%.

Do I need a tippet with a tapered leader?

This can be useful if it is used right out of the package, but with use, it will whittle down to a smaller size to the point that you will have to add a tippet to the tapered leader.

Jon Stenstrom

Founder & Angler

Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles