Tie strong, reliable knots and you’ll be safe in the knowledge that your line won’t give way when landing hard-fighting fish. “But which knots to tie?” we hear you ask.
Well, here are five solid performers to use for almost all of your fishing. There’s no need for complicated knots, just ones that do what you need them to and don’t buckle under pressure.
1. Grinner
One of the most reliable and popular knots out there. It’s great when tying to hooks and swivels and works well on light and strong lines for all manner of species and techniques. Great with all lines apart from fluorocarbon, where a blood knot works best.
2. Knotless Knot
If you’re looking to fish your baits on hair rigs then this is the knot for you. It’s really simple to tie and as strong as an ox, maintaining a high line strength. Great with baits like boilies, large pellets and sweetcorn. Measure up with the bait you’re going to be using beforehand to make sure you get the correct length of hair.
3. Grinner-to-grinner
Also known as the running-line knot and double uni knot. Use this when tying two sections of line together; it forms a nice neat knot that won’t snag and it also works well when joining line to braid, so it’s good for tying on leaders.
4. Loop knot
The loop-to-loop knot is exceptionally strong and is a great way of connecting hooklengths. Pass the main-line loop through the hooklength loop, then pass your hook through the main-line loop.
5. Blood Knot
The blood knot works well with fluorocarbon and we use it instead of a grinner when using this material.
Top tip
Make sure you moisten your knots when you pull them tight so that your line doesn’t rub and weaken.