Knot
Surgeon's Knot
Joining leader to main line (different diameters)
beginner85% line strength6 steps
When to use it
The easiest knot for attaching a fluorocarbon leader to your main line. Great for quick leader changes on the pier.
Step by step
Tying the surgeon's knot
Wet the knot before the final pull. Friction from a dry cinch is what breaks most line.
Lay the leader and main line side by side, overlapping about 8 inches.
Form a simple loop with both lines together.
Pass both the tag end and the entire leader through the loop.
Repeat: pass both lines through the loop a second time (double surgeon's).
Moisten and pull all four ends to tighten evenly.
Trim both tag ends.
Tips
- The double surgeon's knot (two passes) is stronger than a single pass.
- Works well for joining lines of very different diameters.
- Quick to tie in windy conditions on the pier.
Practice this one at home with a scrap of line before you need it in the wind. More knots are in the knot guide.