There are few things more frustrating in fishing than to lose a big one because a knot you tied in your fishing line failed. Properly tied fishing line provides a solid connection between your rod and reel and the terminal tackle of your fishing rig. Knot selection, line type, rig construction and wear from use all factor into creating a secure system that greatly reduces the chances of a fish escaping due to line failure.
Proper Knot
When tying fishing line, use the proper knot. When tying a tackle to fishing line, use a knot that will bind well and retain its strength. The Palomar, Tri-lene and improved clinch knot are good choices. To join fishing lines of equal diameter, use a double surgeon's knot or blood knot. Use a nail knot or Albright knot to join lines of unequal size. To tie fishing line to a reel spool, use an arbor knot. This knot keeps your line securely attached to the reel in the even a fish strips you fishing line completely.
Lubrication
To tighten a knot properly, always lubricate the knot before you tighten it. A small amount of water or spit on the knot allows it to draw down smoothly. The water or spit then dries and the knot locks in place. Lubricating the knot also prevents excessive friction when tightening the knot from damaging and weakening the knot.
Rigging
When building a fishing rig, use only as much tackle as is absolutely necessary. Extra swivels, weights and hooks require more knots that increase the number of failure points in fishing line in your rig. The fewer the knots in the rig, the better.
Testing
When you finish tying a knot, test it to ensure it will hold. Pull the line hard and try to get the knot to slip or break. If you can't make the knot fail, the likelihood is a fish won't be able to either. To test the knot on a hook, place the curve of the hook over a stationary object or use a pair pf pliers to safely pull the knot.
Specialty Fishing lines
Certain fishing lines, such as superlines, fluorocarbon or braided lines are much more slippery and flexible than standard monofilament line. Some knots, when tied in these lines, will slip and let go more easily than others. A Palomar or Tri-lene knot works well with these lines. Other knots, such as the improved clinch knot, may also work, if extra turns are added when the knot is tied.
Line Examination
When fishing, check you line and knots regularly for wear. As you fish, knots will rub against the bottom, rocks, dock pilings and other obstructions that can abraid and damage knots, increasing the chances of them failing. If a knot is damaged, cut the line back and re-tie the knot. If necessary, replace the line.
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