How to Tie Fishing Knots: 8 Ways

Master These 8 Essential Fishing Knots for Success on the Water

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, knowing the right fishing knots is crucial for success in fishing. A basic overhand knot might work in a pinch, but no seasoned fisherman would rely on just one knot technique.

Each fishing scenario demands specific knots—whether you're tying your fishing line to a hook or joining two lines together. To ensure you’re prepared for every situation, mastering these eight essential fishing knots will help you fish with confidence and improve your fishing skills.

1. Improved Clinch Knot: Perfect for Tying a Line to a Hook 

(Perfect for tying a line to a hook)

1. The Improved Clinch Knot is a reliable and popular knot for securing your line to a hook. To tie this knot, follow these simple steps:

   1. Thread your fishing line through the hook’s eye and wrap the loose end around the line 5–7 times.
   2. Pass the loose end through the loop nearest to the hook’s eye and then back through the loose coil.
   3. Pull both ends tightly to secure the knot. Trim any excess line if needed for a neat finish.

   This knot is perfect for ensuring a strong and secure connection between your line and hook, making it a must-know for anglers of all levels.

2. Palomar Knot: Ideal for Tying Line to a Hook

(Ideal for tying line to a hook)

1. The Palomar Knot is one of the strongest and easiest knots to learn, perfect for tying your fishing line to a hook. Follow these simple steps to tie the Palomar Knot:

   1. Double the fishing line to form a loop and push the loop through the hook’s eye.
   2. Tie a loose overhand knot with the doubled line.
   3. Pass the loop over the hook and pull the line tight to secure the knot.
   4. Trim any excess line if necessary to finish.

   This knot is a reliable choice for anglers, providing a strong, secure connection that won’t let you down.

3. Turle Knot: Best for Tying Thin Line to Small Hooks

(Best for tying thin line to small hooks)

1. The Turle Knot is an excellent choice for tying thin fishing line to small hooks. Follow these simple steps to tie the Turle Knot:

   1. Thread your fishing line through the hook’s eye and tie a loose double overhand knot.
   2. Pass the open loop over the hook and tighten it around the hook’s eye.

   This knot is perfect for delicate lines and small hooks, offering a secure and reliable connection.

4. Blood Knot: Perfect for Joining Two Fishing Lines

(Perfect for joining two sections of line together)

1. The Blood Knot is a reliable choice for joining two fishing lines, particularly when you're looking for a strong and secure connection. Follow these simple steps to tie the Blood Knot:

   1. Align the ends of two fishing lines and wrap one line around the other at least five times.
   2. Repeat the process with the other line, wrapping it around the first line.
   3. Bring both loose ends back towards the centre and pull both lines tight to secure the knot.

   This knot is ideal for joining lines of similar or different diameters and is widely used by anglers for its strength and reliability.

5. Double Surgeon’s Loop: For Creating a Loop at the End of a Line

(For creating a loop at the end of a line)

1. The Double Surgeon’s Loop is a quick and easy knot used for creating a loop at the end of your fishing line. Follow these simple steps to tie the Double Surgeon’s Loop:

   1. Fold the end of your fishing line into a double line and tie an overhand knot.
   2. Pass the loop through the knot’s hole a second time.
   3. Moisten the knot and pull it tight to secure the loop.

   This knot is perfect for creating a strong, reliable loop at the end of your line, ideal for connecting lures, hooks, or swivels.

6. Wire Line to Mono Knot

(For attaching wire line to monofilament)

1. Step 1: Form a Loop in the Wire
   Take the wire line and create a small loop at the end. Secure the loop by twisting the wire back onto itself several times. Use pliers if needed for a tight and secure twist.

   Step 2: Pass the Monofilament Through the Loop
   Insert the end of the monofilament fishing line through the loop created in the wire line. Pull through enough line to comfortably make the knot.

   Step 3: Wrap the Monofilament Around the Wire
   Wrap the monofilament around both the wire and itself 5–7 times, ensuring the wraps are neat and tight.

   Step 4: Tighten the Knot
   Pull the monofilament and wire in opposite directions to tighten the knot securely. Use pliers for extra tension if needed. Once the knot is firm, trim the tag ends of both lines to complete the connection.

   This method creates a reliable and durable connection between the wire and mono lines, ideal for fishing in challenging conditions.

7. Tucked Sheet Bend: Best for Attaching a Line to a Leader Loop or Snelled Hook

(Best for attaching a line to a leader loop or snelled hook)

1. The Tucked Sheet Bend is a reliable knot for attaching your fishing line to a leader loop or snelled hook. Follow these steps to tie the Tucked Sheet Bend:

   1. Pass the line through the leader loop and tie a simple sheet bend knot.
   2. Thread the loose end back through the loop of the sheet bend.
   3. Tighten the knot securely to ensure a strong connection.

   This knot is perfect for ensuring your leader line stays firmly attached to your hook or other tackle, providing reliability in various fishing situations.

8. Snelling a Hook: For Attaching Monofilament to a Hook

(For attaching monofilament to a hook)

1. Snelling a hook is a strong and effective method for attaching monofilament to a hook. Follow these simple steps to snell your hook:

   1. Pass your fishing line through the hook’s eye twice to create a loop along the hook’s shank.
   2. Wrap the loop tightly around the hook 5–10 times.
   3. Hold the coils in place and pull the line until the loop is snug under the coils to secure the knot.

   This method is widely used for creating a secure, reliable attachment between your line and hook, making it ideal for various fishing applications.

Ready to Cast Your Line?

Mastering these essential fishing knots will prepare you for any fishing adventure. To ensure the best results, practise each knot at home until you can tie them with ease. With these knot-tying skills, you’ll be ready to cast your line and hook your next big catch with confidence!