Fishing Line Knots–So No Fish Gets Away
There are many fishing line knots used by anglers for different purposes, but the amateur or beginner
fisherman really only needs to know three or four knots to be proficient. Of course, these knots may take a long
time to master, so practice is always the key. A properly tied fishing line knot can mean the difference between
dinner and a story about “the one that got away.”
The best knots for the weekend or beginner angler are those knots that one is most comfortable with. Fishing
line knots should fit the style of the angler and the type of fish to be caught. Of course, the first key to tying
fishing line knots is to make sure the angler has the proper equipment, meaning the size of the lure, the rod, and
the fishing line should be compatible and should fit the type of fishing to be done.
A lure or a fishing line that is too big for the fishing rod will inevitably cause problems, and even the best
fishing line knots will not be enough. Most fishing rods have some small printing on them with the recommended
sizes for both lures and fishing lines. It is very wise to follow these guidelines.
Three common fishing line knots used by anglers are the Palomar knot, the Albright knot, and the Clinch knot.
These are all relatively easy to learn and master, yet they are known as very reliable knots and can be used in a
variety of circumstances.
First, the Palomar knot is a knot that is used to secure a fishing line to a lure, snap, or swivel. It is good
for all kinds of light fishing lines and retains the original line’s strength. It is also nearly impossible to pull
out. First, 8-12” of line is doubled into a loop and passed through the eye of the hook, lure, or swivel.
A very loose overhand knot is then tied using the doubled loop and the doubled section of line leading back to
the rod. The object to be tied is then passed through the remaining loop of the overhand knot and one slides the
loop up the line just above the eye of the hook.
As always with fishing line knots, the line is moistened to reduce friction. One then pulls on the tag and the
standing ends evenly to tie the knot down. The free end of the line can then be trimmed. It may be difficult to
follow written instructions for knots, but there are many illustrated books and videos available with explicit
instructions and examples.
The Albright knot is a strong knot that is used to tie different diameters of line together. It is a relatively
smooth knot and can pass through guides. Some anglers even coat the knot with rubber cement to make it even
smoother and more secure.
The Clinch knot is another good method of securing fishing line to a hook, lure, or swivel. It is also often
used to tie the leader to the fly in fly fishing. It is known as an angler’s reliable standby knot, but should not
be used on test line over 12 pounds.
Mastering just a few fishing line knots can make a significant difference in fishing success, and perhaps allow
you to avoid losing a fish once it is hooked.
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