Turle Knot
Turle Knot
A traditional fly fishing terminal knot that allows the fly to swim in-line with the leader. The original single-hitch version — superseded by the Double Turle Knot for better security.
Video by Sportfishing Report on YouTube
About the Turle Knot
The Turle Knot is the original form of what became the Double Turle Knot — attributed to Major William Greer Turle of Newton Stacey, Hampshire, in the late 19th century. It passes a loop of line over the fly and tightens around the hook neck, creating straight in-line pull.
While the single Turle Knot is the historical original, most modern anglers use the Double Turle Knot for improved security. The single version is still taught for its simplicity and historical significance in fly fishing.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Flies with turned-up or turned-down eye hooks
- ✓ Light tippet on small flies
- ✓ Historical and traditional fly fishing
Not ideal for
- ✗ Heavy fishing applications (use Double Turle instead)
- ✗ Braided line
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the Turle Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Thread through the eye
Pass 8 inches of tippet through the hook eye from front to back.
Step 2: Tie a simple overhand loop
Tie a single loose overhand knot in the tag end, creating a loop. Keep it very loose.
Step 3: Pass the fly through the loop
Pass the entire fly through the loop from the point end, so the loop surrounds the hook and fly.
Step 4: Seat behind the eye
Pull the standing line to draw the loop tight around the hook neck, just behind the eye.
Step 5: Trim and check
Wet and pull to fully seat. Trim the tag end close. The line should pull straight in-line with the hook.
Pro Tips
- Consider using the Double Turle Knot for better security
- Loop must pass completely over the entire fly including hackle
- Seats just behind the eye — not on the tippet
Common Mistakes
- Loop too small to pass over the fly's hackle
- Seating on the line instead of the hook shank
- Using for heavy applications — knot strength is limited