How to tie a Palomar knot

A ‘how-to-tie’ guide for some of the most popular fishing knots

EDITOR’S NOTE: With fishing action ramping up this spring, we thought now would be a great time to reintroduce a series on several basic fishing knots that can be used by a variety of anglers.

Read the instructions below, then watch the accompanying video with some line and a hook handy for great step-by-step visuals.

How to tie a Palomar knot

The Palomar is a very simple, strong knot that’s excellent for tying line to a hook.

But remember: it’s important to not cross the lines over each other that run through the hook eye, especially with monofilament and fluorocarbons. The top line might press down on the bottom one, causing it to break more easily.

Moisten your line before pulling it tight, especially for fluorocarbon line that’s easily damaged by heat from friction.

Here are the steps:

1. Double about 6 inches of line and pass it through the eye of the hook.

2. Tie a simple overhand knot in the doubled line, letting the hook hang loosem but avoid twisting the lines.

3. Pull the end of the loop down, passing it completely over the hook.

4. Moisten and pull both ends of the line to draw up the knot, then trim the excess.