Make your own top shots

[forktail]

howbot some info on that topshot holder bro.

certinly looks like it would make life a lot simpler.

I use all the FC (25meters) on the spool and rewind the finished topshot back onto the spool for storage. Kevlar thread seizing, Pliobond glue, and wire loop insertion (vs needle) work for me - easy stuff. As Jack points out, very good sensitivity for bottom/deep and great for flylining. The only downside I've seen to date using very short topshots is that the Spectra floats sideways over other (mono) lines, so you have to pay strict attention to your bait's position, and tangles can get expensive. Another great upside, is changing topshot weights quickly with the loop2loop connection -very versatile.

[Basil]

Nice set of illustrations Brandon. One thing I would add is that the loop doesn't need to be quite as long, but it doesn't hurt either. Loops and serves are the way to connect for the big fish.

[Insatiable]

Problem here!

I did not see a beer located anywhere on that work bench? How is that possible?

Thanks for the illustration. Great Job!

[branman]

Originally Posted by Basil

Nice set of illustrations Brandon. One thing I would add is that the loop doesn't need to be quite as long, but it doesn't hurt either. Loops and serves are the way to connect for the big fish.

Thanks Basil and yes I agree and use much smaller loops now.

Originally Posted by Insatiable

Problem here!

I did not see a beer located anywhere on that work bench? How is that possible?

Thanks for the illustration. Great Job!

Remember these are closeups If i took a wide angle shot of my garage I'm sure we would find plenty of tackle making fluid!

[jorge91919]

Will you be so kind to let us know where to get that line holder. Thanks.

[sdangler]

Originally Posted by jorge91919

Will you be so kind to let us know where to get that line holder. Thanks.

You can get them from Ringed Hooks or Branman has a new one from Blackwater. I know that Brandon has updated his topshot making process since 2004 so maybe either he'll update here or over on his site at sdlongrange.com.

[SnyperP]

I prefer a nail knot over the serve. Much quicker and doesn't require tools other than a wire loop puller. Blackwater has some great videos for light line applications.