What are Some Fishing Knots?

Even if you were never a boy scout, you still might want to know some important knots to tie when you’re going to take part in outdoor activities. Tying knots is an especially useful skill to know when going fishing, as there are many different types of knots that you can employ that will make your fishing experience better. There is a variety of knots that come in handy while fishing, and below are some of the basic or most important ones you might need to use, as well as a brief description of what each one does.

Surgeon’s Knot
This is a very simple knot, but it is a handy one to use when tying two different fishing lines together. Make sure to pull this knot as tight as you can, or else it will fail and come apart. However, when this knot is tied correctly it is extremely strong and reliable. It is similar in style to one of the most basic knots, the square knot.

Blood Knot
The blood knot is another knot used to for tying two lines together. It involves taking the two lines and wrapping them around each other multiple lines, then pulling them tight. The blood knot does require nimble fingers and some skill to tie it correctly, so beginning knot tiers may struggle with this one.

Dropper Loop Knot
This knot is used for tying in a loop anywhere along your line, which can be useful if you want to attach something such as additional flies or baits to one line. It is relatively easy to form and can be very useful on long fishing lines.

Bimini Twist Knot
The best way to create a double line with a loop at the end is by using the Bimini twist. This loop is one of the most powerful and strongest knot and when tied correctly, it is said to have 100% strength.

Rapala Knot
If you’re looking for a way to tie your lure or hook to the end of your fishing line, the best way to do so might be to use the Rapala knot. It forms a non slip loop and allows the lure to move freely, independent of the knot. When attaching your lure this way, it also allows your bait to swim more naturally, which makes it a bit better for catching fish.

Arbor Knot
This one is good if you’re looking for a way to tie your fishing line to your spool or reel. It is a simple knot to tie and one of the most basic knots in the fisherman’s arsenal. It may not be quite as strong or as powerful as some of the more difficult knots, but it is an important one to know and a good one to start out with.

Improved Clinch Knot
The improved clinch knot is another basic, extremely important knot to know that is used for tying your fishing line to a fishing hook or lure. It is quick and easy to tie and it works well, though occasionally some kinds of rope will give you trouble when attempting to tie this knot. Make sure you know what types of knots work best for the specific fishing line that you are using.

Palomar Knot
This knot is used for the same purpose as the improved clinch knot, which is tying your fishing line to the fishing hook. However, the palomar knot works well on braided fishing lines, which might not take to the improved clinch knot very well. This knot is very strong, though it can be easy to make a mistake on it, in which case the knot will come undone rather easily. As long as it is tied correctly, though, it makes for a very powerful knot.

Uni Knot
Use this knot if you need to tie your fishing line to the hook, joining lines, and for attaching the line to the reel. This knot is a very versatile one as it can be used in many different situations, and may be a suitable replacement for other knots, such as the improved clinch knot. It is a pretty strong and dependable knot, and may be easier for some people to learn than some of the more complicated knots.