How Do I Tie the Leader on a Fishing Hook?

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Fishing leaders are lengths of line that are attached to the end of a main fishing line. Leaders can add shock absorption to a line or provide a transition from line to lure. Attaching a monofilament leader to a braided line, for example, will provide stretch, while a fluorocarbon leader is nearly invisible in the water and can greatly aid the presentation of lures to wary fish. Attaching a lure to a hook to a leader is easily done with the proper knot.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Monofilament or fluorocarbon leader
Hook
Scissors

Step 1

Attach a hook to a leader with a uni knot. Form the knot by holding the hook so that the eye is accessible. Pass 6 to 8 inches of line through the hook eye.

Step 2

Pull the free end of the line alongside the main line. Hold 2 inches of the doubled line in place with your thumb and index finger.

Step 3

Turn the free end of the line back toward the hook eye forming a loop under the doubled line. Wrap the free end of the line around the double line and through the loop. Continue wrapping the line for a total of four turns.

Step 4

Moisten the knot with water or saliva. Pull on the main and free end of the line to tighten the knot and pull it down securely against the hook eye.

Step 5

Trim the free end of the line extending from the knot so that only 1/8 inch extends from the knot.

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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