The simplest, most efficient knot to tie monofilament to monofilament is the double surgeon's knot. Be sure you wet or lubricate the knot with floatant before you pull it tight. Trim the ends closely when you are sure the knot is well tightened.

Carefully wind the leader on the reel except for about eight inches of the end. Pass this end through one of the holes in the spool's side. This allows you to locate the end quickly when you are ready to assemble the tackle before fishing. It also prevents the end from burying under the line or leader coils on the reel, causing a tangle or half hitch in the fly line. If there is a small stick-on label included with your fly line indicating its weight and taper, be sure to put it on the inside of the spool for future reference.