Best Fishing Knot 2023

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

Fishing Knots

What Is The Best Knot For Fishing

A long time ago fishing was the way to get food: the size of the prey depended on whether the fisherman’s family was fed or hungry. Nowadays, fishing in this form has remained only as authentic fishing of some peoples, as well as a type of professional activity, which involves fishing on a large scale with the help of a professional tackle. For most of us, fishing has become a fascinating hobby that promotes an adrenaline rush and unity with nature, which is so lacking for residents of modern megalopolises.

Top clinch knot

Everyone can try this hobby, despite age and physical condition. Human has invented many ways of extracting the inhabitants of the underwater world and the corresponding gear, so everyone can choose the best option for himself.

Top Knots For Fishing

Do you want to sit down quietly on the shore, enjoying the birdsong and contemplating the float? Would you like to experience an adrenaline rush from fighting a pike caught in a spinning? There are no problems: the appropriate gear can be purchased, and for a new fisherman they will not be very expensive. And our article will provide you with the necessary information free of charge!

Fishing Preparation

During the preparation for fishing, it is advisable to study the forecast: if a radical change in weather, squally wind, choking heat, or thunderstorms is planned, it is better to move the day of fishing to another day.

Do not forget to collect all the necessary equipment:

  • In addition to the equipped fishing rods, it is advisable to bring along spare parts for equipment, and sometimes ready-made installations, so as not to lose precious time in the pond.
  • Baits and nozzles. The bait mixture is usually taken with it in a dry form, preparing it already in the pond. It is advisable to stock up on several nozzles in order to manipulate them in conditions of a weak nibble.
  • Other accessories. In this case, we are talking about a container for caught fish (a bucket, or rather a cage), a landing net for large specimens, as well as a knife or extractor for extracting a hook from a prey’s mouth.
  • Things for your own comfort. With passive fishing methods, the fisherman is in one position for a long time, which means that you will need a convenient folding chair with a back and fishing rod stands. For protection from the sun, glasses with tinted glasses and a hat are useful.

Do not forget about the free comfortable clothing for the season, raincoat, and rubber boots!

How to Tie a Reliable Knot For a Fishing Line?

There are no trifles when you do fishing – this is an axiom that experienced fishermen constantly repeat. Very often, not only the quantity of the prey but also its quality depends on the reliability of the selected tackle: trophy fish are not to be caught by unprepared equipment. Knots on the fishing line – one of such important trifles. The knot itself is small, even almost invisible. But this is an extremely important part of fishing equipment because without knots it does not exist.

Before Starting:

  • Choose the right fishing knot and tie it.
  • Add moisture to the knots with water or saliva before tightening it down.
  • Check if your knots perfectly tighten.
  • Cut tag ends of your knot.
  • Try, use, practice!

During the fishing, the fishing line inevitably carries a certain load. Knots on it, too.

The main factors of successful fishing depend on the reliability of the knot:

  • The catch of large or highly resistant fish is impossible without strong joints;
  • A reliable knot will allow you to save tackle with hooks and any other load;
  • An improperly tied, too voluminous knot can ruin and nullify all fishing: it will be too noticeable in the water and therefore scaring away the fish, and passing through the rings, it may interfere with the range and accuracy of these castings.

So, what the best fishing knot for braided Line to swivel, hook, or lure connection is?

Let’s match the most popular knots against one another to determine which one truly is the best fishing knot for a braided line to a swivel, hook, or lure.

Knots That We’ll Describe in This Article

  • Palomar Knot.
  • Uni Knot.
  • Improved Clinch Knot.
  • Trilene Knot.
  • San Diego Jam Knot.

Palomar Knot

Many fishermen believe that the Palomar Knot is the best fishing knot.

Top Best Palomar Knot

Palomar Knot is an excellent knot when tied properly. Be sure that when the hook or lure is passed through the loop that all parts of the knot girth up together. The knot can fail if tied in an incorrect manner. This is also the best knot to use with braided lines. If you want to see the video of this process click here:

Uni Knot

The uni knot is a multipurpose fishing knot that can be used for attaching the fishing line to the arbor of a reel, for joining lines, and for attaching lures, snaps, and swivels.

Top Uni Knot

The Uni Knot was invented by Norman Duncan and is also known as the Duncan Knot. It was also published later under the name Uni Knot by the outdoor writer Vic Dunaway as being a versatile knot that can have many applications. When used to join two lines it is known as a Double Uni Knot.

Double Uni Knot

How to tie the Double Uni Knot?

Top Double Uni Knot

This knot is used by anglers in both salt and freshwater to join lines of similar or different strengths. It works very well and some think that it was easier to tie than the Blood Knot. When tying in braided line to monofilament, make 8 turns with the slippery braided line and 5+ turns with the mono. Click here to see the instructions on how to tie both kinds of knots:

Improved Clinch Knot

The Improved Clinch Knot is one of the most widely used fishing knots. It provides a good method of securing a fishing line to a hook, lure, or swivel. The “improved” version shown here includes an extra tuck under the final turn.

The Improved Clinch Knot is seen as a fisherman’s reliable knot. It is suited for attaching a small diameter tippet to a heavy wire hook. This particular knot is strong, firm and reliable for every fisherman for it can withstand a battle with big fish.

How to Tie an Improved Clinch Knot?

Top Improved Clinch Knot

Given its performance and relative difficulty to tie, I recommend not using this one so did not include a how-to video. Click here:

Trilene Knot

The Trilene knot is a powerful and reliable fishing knot that is effective in tying a monofilament or fluorocarbon line to swivels, hooks, snaps, and lures. It is known to retain about 85-90% of the line’s original strength. It was researched and developed by the Berkley tackle company and is recommended by them to tie the monofilament. I find it works especially well on the fluorocarbon line and leaders, preventing the knot from coming loose in the fight.

How to Tie a Trilene Knot?

Top Tying Trilene Knot

Click here:

San Diego Jam Knot

This knot was very “famous” only in the fishing capital of San Diego but later gained widespread recognition with anglers all over the world as an excellent knot. It attaches a line to a swivel, hook, artificial fly, or clip. Also known as the reverse clinch or the Heiliger knot it can be tied with many types of fishing lines including fluorocarbon, monofilament, and braided v/s the Palomar knot is not as powerful with braid as it is with mono. It has won “stormy” reviews with fishermen.

How to Tie a San Diego Jam Knot?

Top San Diego Jam Knot

Click here:

Conclusions and Practical Guidance

So, this analysis was very close to the 5 famous kinds of knots. Given the slightly stronger hold of the Uni knot along with the fact that it’s a bit easier to tie, I recommend the Uni for this connection. This diagram shows the head-to-head matches that took place as part of this analysis. The test consisted of 3 rounds, the 3rd round was the winning knot tied against itself to test its strength. The red values below the names of the knots represent the amount of pull strength that the knots were able to withstand in each round. Lines used were 10 lb PowerPro braid and 30 lb Ande Fluorocarbon.

5 famous kinds of knots

This knot testing is continuous because people are always seeking out the best method.

Table of Strength of the Main Nodes

That’s all! By learning these 5 easy fishing knots, you’ll probably be more flexible, much more prepared, and ready for your next fishing trip. Some practice and you will become an expert in no time!

Knot Strength Percentage

I add a description and drawings of how to knit the main knots of the fisherman. In fishing, a large number of fishing units can be used. They can be divided into several categories according to their purpose.

Types of Fishing Units:

  • Knots for hooks and lures
  • Loop nodes
  • Knots for attaching fishing line to the reel
  • Fishing nodes for linking two lines
  • Specific nodes

Knots can also be divided by the type of fishing line for which they are better suited.

Types of Fishing Lines Used:

  • For braids
  • For monofilament
  • For fluorocarbon fishing line

Palomar Knot

Palomar Knot

The Palomar knot is a simple but very reliable knot for tying hooks, swivels, and other accessories. This is the main knot for some braided cords. The Palomar node is used everywhere when you need to bind something small. Suitable for woods of any type – for monofilament and braided cord, nylon, and fluorocarbon.

Grinner Knot

Grinner Knot

The Grinner or Uni Knot node is essentially the same node with different names. It is used for fastening hooks, swivels in various snap-ins. No less than the previous Palomar knot is popular, and also, it is one of the main ones for some wicker woods. In addition to its direct purpose, in feeder fishing, Grinner is used for looping floating Pop-Up nozzles in some types of carp and feeder assemblies.

Improved Clinch

Improved Clinch

Improved Clinch is a knot that many anglers can tie with their eyes closed or in total darkness. Suitable for different woods and flood materials. A simple Clinch differs little from an improved one, in it, at the last step, the tip of the fishing line is not held in a large loop. They are considered the best fishing units for hooks, leashes, nozzles, carbines, and swivels. It has high strength, but only when using braids or monofilaments with a diameter of up to 0.4 mm. If you take more, the reliability of the node is reduced. It is easy to tie since it does not have complex weaves.

Knotless Knot

Knotless Knot

A knotless knot, allows you to quickly snap a hair snap hook. This is the knot that every “carp” knows. The length and freedom of hair can be determined by the number of turns of fishing line around the forend of the hook. Node Fishing Knot is used to create a hair snap. It is mainly used for braids. Simple in execution, but very sturdy and reliable. To make it even more reliable, it is recommended to lay the turns of the fishing line evenly, without fly fishing. You can additionally use glue.

Marker Fishing Unit

Marker Fishing Unit

It is used for feeder gear. Usually, a special elastic material is used, which is attached to the main fishing line and serves to indicate the measuring marks. This is the most durable fishing unit, does not slip on the fishing line. If necessary, it can be quickly removed: pull the ends of the elastic thread and pull it out of the knot. After removal, a slight deformation will remain, but it will not have a negative impact on the working qualities of the fishing line.

Leader Knot

Leader Knot

Leader Knot is a simple knot that serves to connect the shock leader with the Main Line of the feeder gear. The shape of the knot allows the fishing line to pass through the rod rings almost unhindered. Used for feeder gear: tie the shock leader to the main fishing line. Securely fastens the 2 ends of the fishing line, even with different diameters and types. At the junction, the knot is very neat, but the strength is 80%. Any novice fisherman can learn to knit such a knot.

Mahin Knot

Mahin Knot

Mahin Knot is one of the few knots suitable for binding fluorocarbon to another fishing line, whether it be a braided cord or monofilament. The pointed form of the knot, for which it was called Carrot, allows you to use it to connect the main fishing line with the shock leader. Suitable for linking any woods in different combinations among themselves.

Simple Loop Fishing Knot

OMIDE Nap Sleeping Face Pillow, Memory Foam Slow Rebound Face Down Desk Pillow Sleeper Back Support, Hollow Design, Removable Washable Velvet Cover Blue

Universal node. Bits of help fasten leashes and floats. In water, it is invisible. Its strength is very high, but it is performed quite simply. Suitable for monofilament and braids. Such a node is used on an industrial scale. And also there are all kinds of variations.

Albright Fishing Unit

Albright Fishing Unit

It has high strength. It is used to fasten the leash and the shock leader to the baseline and when fishing in difficult conditions, when there is a risk of tearing the equipment. Tightly connects 2 fishing lines with each other, even of different diameters and structures. It’s easy to master.

Snell Fishing Unit

Snell Fishing Unit

This is the simplest hook fishing unit that applies to different fishing lines: monofilaments and braids of various diameters. It is attached to the forearm and has excellent durability. When pulling a caught fish, it distributes the load throughout the entire rig. Therefore, aggressive jerking fish will not spoil the fishing line.

How To Tie Two Fishing Lines

How To Tie Two Fishing Lines

Quick Loop

Quick Loop

Comfortable Loop

Comfortable Loop

Dead Fishing Loop

Dead Fishing Loop

Reinforced Fishing Loop

Reinforced Fishing Loop

Fixed Loop Assembly

Fixed Loop Assembly

The Loop On The Main Line

Loop On The Main Line

Useful Knots for Fishing

Useful Knots For Fishing

Best Fishing Knot for Lures

Rapala Fishing Kknot

Tags: #best fishing knot / #best knot for fishing hook / #best knot for fishing line / #best bass fishing knot / #what is the best knot for fishing / #how to tie the best fishing knot / #what is the best knot for braided fishing line

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

Affiliate Disclosure: FishReeler.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Ebay, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shop, Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, Renn, Okuma, KastKing, etс. Clicking a link helps keep FishReeler.com free, at no extra cost to you!

About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

5 1 vote
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
8 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Aswold Havensquire
Aswold Havensquire
3 months ago

The article offers a comprehensive guide to the most popular and effective fishing knots used by anglers worldwide. It includes detailed instructions and images on how to tie each knot, along with their specific uses and advantages.

The author has done an excellent job of presenting the information in an organized and easy-to-understand manner. The article covers essential knots for various fishing scenarios, such as the Palomar knot for tying hooks and the Surgeon’s knot for connecting two lines.

Moreover, the article also discusses the pros and cons of each knot, helping readers make informed decisions on which knots to use in different situations.

Overall, the article is a useful resource for both novice and experienced anglers looking to improve their knot-tying skills. It provides valuable insights into selecting the right knot for different fishing techniques and conditions, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in fishing.

Gorenzo Nectarbridge
Gorenzo Nectarbridge
3 months ago

I’ve been using the improved clinch knot for over two decades but recently decided to give the uni-knot a try. And let me tell you, I am now a convert! The uni-knot is incredibly easy to tie and has a variety of uses – from forming end loops and joining lines to making droppers and snelling hooks.

One thing I love about the uni-knot is that if you run the loop of the line through the eye of the hook a second time before tying, you can create the “fishing fool” knot. It’s a handy little knot to have in your arsenal and has saved me time and time again.

Plus, you can double the lineup for an even stronger uni-knot. It’s a versatile knot that I highly recommend giving a try.

Sivad Fieldrrun
Sivad Fieldrrun
3 months ago

In my experience, I think it’s better to skip the improved clinch knot and go straight for the uni-knot. Not only is it easy to tie, but it’s also incredibly versatile. This year, I’ve joined lines and used droppers for the first time, and the uni-knot has been a game-changer for me.

I have to admit, I was a little anxious about trying the uni-knot at first. It can be tough to break old habits and try new things, especially when you’re relying on them to catch fish. But I’m so glad I took the leap of faith and tried it out.

The uni-knot has proved to be reliable and straightforward, and it’s now my go-to knot for a variety of fishing scenarios. If you’re new to fishing or looking to improve your knot-tying skills, I highly recommend giving the uni-knot a try. You might be surprised at how quickly it becomes your favorite knot.

Oways Crosshank
Oways Crosshank
3 months ago

I used to be a die-hard fan of the improved clinch knot, but that all changed when I lost a massive bass last year. I suspect that I may have missed the “improved” part of the knot by not going back through the loop, and it cost me dearly.

It took a lot of courage for me to try tying a new knot, but I eventually gave the uni-knot a shot. And boy, am I glad I did! The uni-knot is incredibly versatile and straightforward once you get the hang of it. I now use it for everything from forming end loops to joining lines and making droppers.

Breaking old habits and trying new things can be tough, especially when your success on the water is on the line. But I strongly encourage you to give the uni-knot a chance. It’s easy to tie and versatile, and you might find yourself wondering why you ever bothered with the improved clinch knot.

Bertran Odgenbone
Bertran Odgenbone
3 months ago

The Palomar knot is both stronger and easier to tie than the improved clinch knot. It’s my go-to knot for drop shots and most line-to-lure/hook connections. However, it can be problematic when used with larger lures.

On the other hand, the improved clinch knot gives me more control over the strength of the knot and can be easily tied to anything. It’s a reliable knot that I use in a variety of fishing scenarios.

In addition to these two knots, there are several others that I find useful. The knotless knot is great for snelling, while the dropper loop/twisted dropper loop allows me to make my own rigs. The double surgeon’s loop is handy for quick connections using a cow hitch, while the perfection loop is similar to the double surgeon’s and can be used for mainline-to-leader connections.

Overall, having a repertoire of knots at your disposal can be incredibly helpful when fishing. Each knot has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the right knot for the job at hand. With practice, you can become a master of knot-tying and increase your chances of landing that trophy fish.

Ansel Mousefoot
Ansel Mousefoot
3 months ago

I’ve had great success using the San Diego Jam Knot in a variety of fishing situations. It’s versatile and can be used for splices, barrel swivels, bait hooks, lures, snelling, and even as a deterrent to horse theft!

I’ve found that when using a lighter test line, it’s important to make more loops around the main line to prevent a thermal breakdown during cinching. This will ensure that the knot remains strong and secure.

Here’s a helpful tip: before cinching the knot, wet the line and then draw down the knot. Next, draw the tag end, followed by the main line using a confidence pull. This technique has allowed me to meet or even exceed the original line’s tensile test.

Overall, the San Diego Jam Knot is a reliable knot that every angler should have in their arsenal. It’s easy to tie and can be used in a variety of situations. Give it a try and see how it works for you!

Gorenzo Gwendorne
Gorenzo Gwendorne
3 months ago

As an angler, you’re probably curious about which knot is the strongest or easiest to tie, and whether you can use the same knot on braid and fluorocarbon. Well, let me tell you, a well-tied knot is essential to landing fish, no matter where or what you’re fishing for.

After researching what professional anglers use, we’ve compiled a list of the best fishing knots. It’s worth noting that the Palomar, Uni, and Non-Slip Loop knots are popular choices for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. 

These knots have been tested and proven to be reliable and strong, making them great options for joining your braided main line to a fluorocarbon leader or connecting your line to lures and hooks. So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, it’s important to know and practice these knots to increase your chances of success on the water.

Hanson Frayspen
Hanson Frayspen
3 months ago

As an angler, it can be overwhelming to choose which knot to use for a particular situation. However, it’s good to know that even the pros only use a few tried-and-true knots that are strong, easy to tie, and fast.

When it comes to selecting a knot, there are several factors to consider such as the knot’s size, the direction of remaining tag ends, and its ability to resist debris. For example, the Blood Knot is a respected knot but has a reputation for hooking onto weeds, explaining why the Double Uni is more popular.

Looking at what experienced anglers use, we have derived a list of universally popular knots for both fresh- and saltwater fishing. These include the Palomar, Uni, and Non-Slip Loop.

Other popular knots used by the pros are the Rapala Knot, Snell Knot, San Diego Jam, Bimini Twist, and Kreh, or Non-Slip Loop Knot. In the following sections, I’ll provide a brief review of each of these knots and their suitability for different fishing scenarios.