How do I Attach a Fishing Hook?

Fishing Bait & Hook image by 76media from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Your fishing rod and reel are assembled and you have the fishing line spooled on the reel. All that remains for you to do is tie a hook on the end of the line and you are all set for the big fishing trip. The knot used to connect a hook to your line should not be overlooked, as a knot can be the weakest point in your fishing line if not tied correctly. Choosing the right knot is essential to successfully landing the big one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fishing line (monofilament, fluorocarbon or braid)
Hook
Sharp scissors

Step 1

Hold a long shank, circle bait holder, wide gap or other style hook by the shank just above the bend. Position the hook so the point is away from your opposite hand.

Step 2

Feed the free end of your fishing line through the eye of the hook so it exits on the point side of the hook. Pull 5 to 6 inches of line through the hook eye.

Step 3

Turn the line back and feed it partially through the hook eye, forming a loop on the point side of the hook. Pull the free end of the line beside the main line to form a double line on this side of the hook.

Step 4

Hold the loop in one hand and the double line in the other. Tie a simple overhand knot with the loop and double line and pull the loop down from the knot.

Step 5

Pull the loop down along the shank and around the bend of the hook. Begin tightening the knot down against the eye of the hook by pulling the free end of the line. Moisten the knot with water or saliva and pull down tight. Trim excess line from the free end of the line with sharp scissors.

Tips & Warnings

The advantage of the Palomar is that the line passes through the hook eye two times. This helps preserve the test strength of the line and also forms a knot that resists slipping when braid lines are used.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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