Tippet/Balance/Hook Size

[steve98]

Do you match your tippet SZ to a matching balancing hook size?
For example I had an old Orvis leader tie kit that had a chart recommending certain hook size range for a specific
X tippet size. But what if water conditions IE clarity and flow rate require say a 5X tippet, but the fly and hatch require a much bigger fly,that according to the Orvis chart is not a balancing match?

 

[dudemanspecial]

I typically use the hook size ÷3 = tippet x rule, but you can usually go down 1 x size smaller if you think it necessary as long as the fly isn't too wind resistant.

 

[Fly-Swatter]

I wouldn't get too caught up in the tippet size based on the water clarity thing.

Smaller tippets are useful to:
1. sink nymphs faster
2. reduce drag on dries
3. fit through the eyes of smaller flies.

IMO, when "leader shy" fish are likely drag shy.

 

[troutbert]

If a trout is willing to hit a big dry fly, like a Green Drake, it won't be bothered by 4x tippet.

 

[sandflyx]

nope to me if it cast its right.

 

[steve98]

I agree with sandflyx I rarely use a tippet bigger than 4x. And will tie anything from a SZ 18 dry Griffths gnat to a #8 weighted Wooly Bugger on it!

 

[PennKev]

You can make your life simple by just using 4x as a starting point for most wets, nymphs, and dries. I don't even consider 6x until I get down to #18 flies and usually I stick to 5x when I think i need finer tippet. If I'm fishing a large nymph or big bushy dry I go to 3x whenever I can.

For streamers I do not ever use anything smaller than 2x. Period.