Knots

The Non-Slip Loop Knot

Non-slip Loop. Loop knots are useful terminal connections when you want to get more action out of a lure and you prefer not to use a snap. These knots are also helpful with some jigs and weighted flies, allowing them to appear more natural on the fall, swim, or drift. Anglers have devised a number of loop knots, and many work fairly well, although some slip under extreme pressure and few hold a high percentage of line strength. Loops can be made with the Uni and Improved Clinch Knots by using pliers to grasp the tag end and pull it tightly without pulling firmly on the standing line. However, these knots will slip down under extreme tension and will need to be retied, plus the friction caused by that slipping makes the knot and the line just above it suspect. Therefore, it's better to use a good loop knot that will not slip.

The Non-slip Loop Knot has had several names in the past. Primarily used with nylon monofilament, it is not as difficult to tie as it seems and has very good strength. To tie it, make an overhand knot in the line, leaving about 6 inches at the tag end. Pass the tag end through the hook eye and then back through the overhand knot the same way that it came out. The size of the overhand knot determines the size of the loop; for most situations, keep it small.

Hold the overhand knot softly with one hand, and pull on the tag end of the line to bring the overhand knot down toward the eye. Wrap the tag end around the standing line the proper number of times. (Manufacturers recommend seven wraps for line under 10 pounds, five wraps for 10- to 14-pound line, four wraps for 15- to 40-pound line, three wraps for 50- to 60-pound line, and two wraps for heavier line, but you may need to experiment with this on thin-diameter lines.) Bring the tag end back through the loop of the overhand knot the same way that it exited. Moisten, pull on the tag end to form the final knot, and then pull from both ends to snug up completely.