How to Tie A Improved Clinch Knot for Fishing

How To

As every experienced angler knows, the right knot can make or break a successful fishing trip. Unfortunately, I lost a record fish because of a poorly tied line. In this post, I will give step-by-step instructions on how to tie an Improved Clinch Knot for your fish hook, including my personal tips and tricks, how my Dad does it, and a link to tying the Palomar Knot!

SUPPLIES

TIME

  • 3 minutes

Step-By-Step Instructions to Tie an Improved Clinch Knot

This image shows step 1 and has the end of a fish hook on the left and fishing line being threaded through it on the right.
Thread the line through the eye of the fish hook, then wrap the line around itself 6 to 8 times.
This image shows step two for how to tie a Clinch Knot for fishing.
Thread the loose end of the fishing line back through first loop that touches the eye of the fish hook, then wrap the line back inside the loose loop that was just made.
Infographic of Step 3 of tying a clinch knot. Pull on both ends of the fishing line until the knot is tight against the eye of the fish hook.
Pull on both ends of the fishing line until the knot is tight against the eye of the fish hook.
Infographic of Step 4 of tying a clinch knot. If needed, trim the short end of the line. 
If needed, trim the short end of the line.

Pro-Tip for Step 3: I hold the hook with my left hand roughly a foot away from my face, the long end of the fishing line -between my teeth, and I pull the short end of the line tight with my right hand. Now, my personal method is by no means the “official” way to do it, but it’s the fastest way for me.

 

Man holding onto a fish he caught using improved clinch knot.

Mel’s Outdoors Tips & Tricks

First things first, the finished knot will feel more secure if the line is damp throughout each step. Most anglers (my Dad comes to mind) will spit on the line or put it in their mouths. However, I usually dip the line into the lake, river, or stream.

Remember, speed comes with practice! Don’t be discouraged if the knot doesn’t come out the way you were hoping the first time. Don’t be discouraged, keep practicing until you are confident in the knot’s strength, or you may lose a big fish!

When to Use an Improved Clinch Knot?

The Improved Clinch Knot is one of the most versatile fishing knots, ideal for securing your fishing line to a hook, swivel, or lure, depending on your preference. 

Does the Type of Fishing Line Matter? 

Yes and no. This knot holds lighter monofilament and fluorocarbon lines better. Tying a secure Improved Clinch Knot on braided lines can be difficult. However, with enough practice, you can get a secure knot without much trouble.

Need a Knot for Fishing With a Braided Line? 

If you are using a heavier line or larger hook, another very secure knot is the Palomar Knot. Check out this post with step-by-step instructions on how to tie a Palomar Knot! The Palomar Knot is naturally stronger because the fishing line threads around the eye of the hook twice rather than just once. Some anglers prefer the Palomar Knot because it’s effective with all types of lines, including braided ones!

Get Ready for a Beautiful Season of Fishing

At Mel’s Outdoors, we offer plenty of fishing lines to get you ready for the season ahead. We’re proud to be your online fishing store, providing everything from lures to lines. Shop our selection today. 

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