The Only Knot You Need To Know

Line To Line

Attaching lines is done the same way as tying line to hook. Compare illustrations #1 and #6 . Notice that you handle things the same way, even though the two parallel strands involved are from different pieces of line, rather than from the same piece doubled back.

The procedure is simply to form the uni-knot circle with line A around line B, going through six times and pulling down as in illustration #7. Once the knot is formed and tightened (illustration #8), reverse the lines and tie another uni-knot with line B around line A. After the two knots are finished, pull on the two main strands of line, as indicated by arrows in illustration #9, to slide the two knots together. Trim excess ends.

This application replaces the blood knot, which is one of the most unwieldy knots to handle. Breaking strength of this tie is less than 100 percent, but over 90 percent and consistently stronger than the blood knot. It can be increased to 100 percent if you double both strands of line before tying the pair of uni-knots, but the single tie is strong enough for most applications.

Snelling A Hook

Snelling is a snap with the uni-knot. Thread line through the hook eye, pulling through at least six inches. Form the familiar uni circle and hold it tight against the hook shank with thumb and finger. Make several turns (four or five are enough) around the shank and through the circle. Pull on the tag end to draw the knot roughly closed. Finish by holding the standing line in one hand, the hook in the other, and pulling in opposite directions.

Spooling Line

To affix line to a baitcasting reel, pass the end of the line around the spool, grasp the tag end and the standing line with thumb and finger of left hand, and tie a uni-knot. Trim the knot close, then pull gently on the standing line to snug the loop tight to the spool.

For a spinning reel spool, simply make a large loop in the end the line with a uni-knot, drop the loop over the spool, and draw up by pulling on the standing line. In either case, use only two or three wraps to form the uni-knot.

Vic Dunaway is a prolific writer and former editor of Florida Sportsman magazine.