Core Competition Rules (FIPS-Mouche Standards)
Leader Length: Maximum of two times the length of the rod (e.g., an 11-foot rod allows a maximum ~22-foot leader).
No Additional Weight: Split shot or any other weight attached to the leader is prohibited; only tungsten beads on the flies are permitted to sink the rig.
No Indicators: Traditional strike indicators (bobbers/foam) are prohibited. Brightly colored monofilament ("sighters") integrated into the leader is allowed to detect strikes.
Hook Type: All flies must be on barbless hooks or hooks with the barb pinched down.
Fly Count: Typically, a maximum of 2 or 3 flies is permitted, depending on specific event rules.
Distance Between Flies: Minimum distance between flies is often 20 inches (50cm) to prevent foul-hooking.
Fly Line Requirement: A fly line must be on the reel. Many anglers use specialized, ultra-thin (0.55mm) competition fly lines to adhere to rules while allowing for direct, "mono-rig" style, contact.
Landing Fish: Fish must be landed using a net; touching the fish or leader by hand to land it may not count in some competitions.