The most common and reliable way to attach a hook to a braided line is by using the Palomar Knot. It maintains a high breaking strength and is relatively easy to tie. Here's how:
Steps for Tying a Palomar Knot with Braided Line:
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Double the Line: Pass the braided line through the eye of the hook, creating a loop. Pull a good length of line through - about 3 inches is a good starting point.
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Tie an Overhand Knot: Using the doubled line, tie a simple overhand knot. Don't cinch it tight yet. Make sure the hook can pass through the loop you've created.
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Pass the Hook Through the Loop: Pass the hook (and any lure or swivel attached to it) completely through the loop you just created in the overhand knot.
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Moisten the Line: This helps prevent friction when tightening, especially with braided line.
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Tighten the Knot: Pull on both the tag end (the short end) and the main line to tighten the knot down onto the eye of the hook. Make sure the knot seats properly against the hook eye.
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Trim the Tag End: Leave a small tag end. With braided line, it's often a good idea to leave a slightly longer tag end than you might with monofilament, as braid can sometimes slip.
Why the Palomar Knot?
- Strong: The Palomar knot is known for its exceptional strength, retaining a high percentage of the line's breaking strength.
- Easy to Tie: It's a relatively simple knot to learn and tie consistently, even in challenging conditions.
- Reliable: It's a proven knot that has been used by anglers for years.
Tips for Tying with Braided Line:
- Moisten the line: Braided line can generate more friction than monofilament or fluorocarbon, so moistening it before tightening helps prevent weakening the line.
- Leave a longer tag end: Braided line can be slippery, so leaving a slightly longer tag end can help prevent slippage.
