The Russ Peake Loop - An Improved Loop Connection

The RUSSELL PEAK LOOP An Improved Loop Connection

There was a minor wave of interest a few years ago, when I mentioned my use of the Russ Peake Loop, for leader to line connection. Well, alright - one person wondered what the heck I was talking about..... that's a minor wave, aint it? Today, another intrepid angler, wondered. So, with two people now engaged - it seems its time to put this into a blog post. Anyway, if anyone is feeling frisky enough to give it a whirl, here are the details from my files, formatted in edit to fit this page.

All credit given to the original. = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = LOOPS FOR FLY LINES AND LEADERS by Ed Russell The Russell Peak loop knot was developed by the famous West Coast rod builder of the same name. Russ Peak was a pioneer of fiberglass fly rod building, starting way back in 1951. Along with his rods, he also developed a fly line loop connection that takes advantage of the poly-core construction of modern lines. The Russ Peak Loop, as it’s called, is a short, strong, flexible loop that goes through the guides with ease, and allows easy switching of leaders. The first time you try to create this loop, it may seem troublesome. But a little practice can remedy that, and if you’re already a fly tyer, you should have no problems. A little persistence will pay off here - it gives you a connection that goes through the guides easier than most, and forms the basis of an interchangeable leader and tippet system. By tying a loop in the butt end of your leaders with a double surgeon's knot, you can easily change from one type or length of leader to another as conditions dictate. If you also tie a loop in the next-to-last leader section, and one in the tippet section, you can go from one tippet size to another with ease. >>>>> (This was way before tippet rings were on the scene. Today, I'd recommend tippet rings, instead, without hesitation ~ David) One word of caution—when joining either line to leader, or two sections of leader, make certain that the loops are drawn together in a sort of figure-eight configuration. Do not allow the loops to form a girth hitch. This can cut itself and is very much weaker than the correctly formed connection. Properly done, the Russell Peak loop-to-loop connection is at least as strong as a nail knot, and has no discernible effect on the turnover or presentation of your fly. Give it a try. I think you will be surprised how well this system works. The materials you need: - A fly tying bobbin filled with a strong tying thread, such as 3/0 monocord, or Kevlar, - A fine sewing needle, - A pair of scissors, - Pliobond or other flexible waterproof cement."

- from PA Angler, Feb 1989 https://www.fishandboat.com/Transact/AnglerBoater/LegacyIssues/1980s/Documents/02february1989.pdf = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Tight Lines, David