Knowing how to tie a fishing hook to a line may seem insignificant when compared to everything else that's needed for fishing. However, a properly tied hook can mean the difference between a catch you'll be proud of and the one that got away. A poorly tied knot may slip or bind, causing the knot to fail. A well-tied knot will be strong and secure under the weight of a fighting fish. There are several knots that will work for tying hooks. Three of the best are the improved surgeon's knot, the improved cinch knot and the palomar knot.
Surgeon's Knot
Step 1
Pass the end of the fishing line through the eye of the fishing hook and pull through about five inches to form a large loop.
Step 2
Pull the lines so that they are together. Form another loop using both lines, and pass the hook and the lines through it to tie an overhand knot.
Step 3
Wrap the lines around and pass them through the loop again. Holding the hook carefully, tighten the knot, working it toward the eyelet. Snug the knot just above the eyelet.
Step 4
Trim the end of the line about 1/8 inch above the knot.
Improved Cinch Knot
Step 1
Pass the end of the fishing line through the eye of the fishing hook.
Step 2
Wrap the end of the line around the other part of the line five times.
Step 3
Pass the end of the line through the loop of line that goes through the hook, just next to the eye.
Step 4
Wrap the end of the line around the other part of the line once below the other wraps and back through the loop nearest the five wraps.
Step 5
Pull the knot tight to snug it up to the eyelet of the fishing hook. Trim the end of the line near the knot, leaving around 1/8 inch to prevent the knot from unraveling.
Palomar Knot
Step 1
Form a loop with the end of the fishing line that's about five inches long and pass it through eyelet of the fishing hook on the side away from the hook point.
Step 2
Bend the loop back toward the doubled line above the eyelet to form a new loop of doubled line.
Step 3
Pass the first loop through the new loop to form an overhand knot of doubled line.
Step 4
Pass the first single loop over the tip and length of the hook.
Step 5
Pull the knot tight so that it snugs down to the eyelet. Trim the end of the line to 1/8 inch just above the knot.
Things You'll Need
- Fishing rod and reel with line
- Fishing hook
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