Best Fishing Knots for Lures: The Angler's Guide

Do you know how to tie a fishing knot? If not, don't worry – you're in the right place. Today, we're covering the best knots for securing your lures and improving your success on the water.

Tying the right knot can improve your fishing success. A strong and reliable knot ensures that your bait stays secure. It allows it to move naturally in the water. That's why it is important to know the best knots and how to tie them. 

We'll describe them in great detail, paired with easy-to-follow illustrations. Tie them, and let's go!

Choosing the Best Knot for Fishing

Choosing the right knot is crucial and can significantly impact your fishing success. Factors such as the type of line, the weight of the bait, and the fishing conditions all play a role in this choice. A well-tied knot can make your fishing adventure a successful one. Below, we'll introduce you to some of the most effective knots for attaching baits, detailing each one's advantages. 

Improved Clinch Knot

This knot is a widespread choice for anglers because of its simplicity and strength. It works best with monofilament and fluorocarbon lines.

• Ideal Use: Best for tying light to medium lures on monofilament or fluorocarbon when targeting species like Bass, Trout, or Crappie in freshwater.
• How to Tie: The improved Clinch knot is a straightforward knot to tie, even for beginners. Simply insert the line through the eye of the lure and wrap it around the main line five to seven times. Next, pass the tag end through the small loop near the lure. Then, it goes through the larger loop formed. Dampen the knot slightly and tighten it by pulling the main line firmly. With a bit of practice, you'll be tying this knot with ease.
• Advantages: This knot is easy to tie and reliable for most fishing situations. It holds firmly with minimal slippage and works well with various baits.

This knot is an excellent choice for everyday fishing needs. It offers simplicity and strength to keep your lure in place.

Loop Knot (Non-Slip Loop Knot)

A loop knot is best for anglers who want to enhance their lure's movement. It allows lures to move freely. That makes them more appealing to fish.

• Ideal Use: Great for lures that benefit from freedom of movement, especially topwater plugs, jerkbait, and finesse baits used in clear or shallow water.
• How to Tie: Form a simple overhand knot a few inches from the tag end. Insert the tag end through the lure eye. Then, guide it back through the overhand knot. Twist the tag end around the primary line four to five times. Finally, pass it through the initial overhand knot again and tighten it securely.
• Advantages: The loop knot increases the lure's natural action. It is strong and secure while maintaining flexibility, making this lure great for finesse fishing techniques.

A loop knot is a great option when subtle, natural lure movement is key to attracting fish.

Palomar Knot

The Palomar knot is simple but incredibly strong. It preserves most of the line's original strength, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty fishing situations.

• Ideal Use: Braided lines and heavy lures target larger, aggressive species like Pike and Muskie or inshore saltwater fish like Redfish and Snook.
• How to Tie: Fold about six inches of line in half and thread it through the lure's eye. Make a basic overhand knot using the doubled line. Pull the loop over the lure, then tighten it by pulling both ends of the line.
• Advantages: This firm knot is ideal for large fish. It is also simple to tie, even in low-light conditions. The Palomar knot reduces the risk of knot failure under pressure.

With its high strength and ease of tying, the Palomar knot is an essential skill for any angler looking to land bigger fish.

FG Knot

The FG knot is the best choice when using a leader with your mainline. It maintains strength and smoothness through rod guides.

• Ideal Use: Designed for connecting braided mainlines to fluorocarbon or mono leaders in saltwater or offshore fishing. Great for casting through guides when chasing Tarpon or Tuna.
• How to Tie: Wrap the leader around the mainline in tight weaves. Lock it in place with a few half-hitch knots. Pull tightly to secure. Then trim the excess.
• Advantages: It maintains nearly 100% line strength, passes smoothly through rod guides for better casting, and is excellent for heavy-duty fishing.

This knot ensures a seamless connection, making it ideal for handling challenging saltwater species.

Uni Knot

The Uni knot is known for its versatility and reliability. It works well with different line types. It provides a strong connection to your lure.

• Ideal Use: The Uni knot is a versatile knot that works well in both freshwater and saltwater fishing applications. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for anglers tackling various fishing conditions.
• How to Tie: Thread the line through the lure eye and double back. Twist the tag end around the doubled line. Do this five to seven times. Moisten and pull tight, sliding the knot down to the lure.
• Advantages: This knot is simple and quick to tie. It holds well with mono and braided lines and provides a secure connection.

With its adaptability and strength, the Uni knot is a must-know for any angler tackling various fishing conditions.

Final Thoughts

Understanding these knots and practicing them regularly will significantly improve your lure fishing experience. Each of these knots offers a unique advantage. Which one is the best also depends on your fishing style and target species.

If you spend time practicing these techniques, you'll have a better and more enjoyable fishing experience. Your effort to practice will help you improve your skills and increase your chances of having successful fishing trips.

What is the easiest knot for you to tie? Which proved to be the most successful? Did we miss any of your favorites? We'd love to hear about your experiences and preferences. Share your answers with us in the comments!