When to Use Which Knot

This page provides guidance on the appropriate situations or contexts for using different types of fishing knots.

Bimini Twist Knot

Strong double-line leader and for loop-to-loop connections. Typically, this knot is used to tie the loop at the end of your backing line for a loop-to-loop connection to your fly line in saltwater applications.

Blood Knot

One of the best knots for joining two lines of similar size. For example, you can use it to attach tippet at the end of your leader. 

Davy and Double Davy Knots

Easy and fast tying knot for attaching a fly.

Double Surgeon’s Knot

Reliable method for joining two lines of noticeably different diameters, such as connecting tippet to your leader in fly-fishing setups. For example, you can use it to attach tippet at the end of your leader. CRO Staff recommendation: A quadruple surgeons knot is even better.

Improved Clinch Knot

Knot for attaching a fly to your leader. 

Non-Slip Mono Knot

Creates a very strong fixed loop in the end of a line. For example, you can use it to attach a streamer, a nymph, or popper at the end of your leader.

Perfection Loop Knot

Small loop in end of a leader aligns with the standing end. For example, you can use it to create a loop at the end of your leader to use for loop-to-loop connections.

Surgeon’s Loop Knot

End of line loop often used to make a loop-to-loop connection.

Uni or Duncan Knot

Used for Snelling, creating loops and end-to-end joins.