Fastest Way To Tie The Amazing FG Knot [Free PDF Guide Included]
By: Luke Simonds on April 30, 2015
Found In:
Braid to Leader • Fishing Knots • Fishing Tips
Why the FG Knot shocked the heck out of my brother and I…
Since launching Salt Strong, I have performed many fishing knot strength analysis experiments to make sure that the knots I recommend truly are the best of the best out there in terms of true tension strength… not just angler hype.
Like most anglers, I’ve used the same fishing knots for years just having zero doubt that they were the best out there.
In fact, when starting the knot testing, I never thought that I’d find anything new… just that I’d simply be generating proof of the ‘fact’ that the knots I’ve relied of for years would be the strongest.
More specifically, I was eager to prove the dominance of my favorite knot (a unique combo of the perfection loop and a uni knot) in the most important category… braided line to leader connection.
The reason this connection is the most important is because it’s the weakest link in the system for anglers who use light braided line (for maximizing casting distance) to heavier fluorocarbon leader (to withstand the biggest, baddest, and saltiest of fish out there).
For instance, a 50% knot tied on the lure end of a 30 lb leader is stronger than a 100% line-to-line knot one the other end given that it’s to a 10 lb main line.
So I was excited to prove to the fishing world that my unique method of connecting my braided line to leader was the best…
Free FG Knot Guide [PDF]
Click here to get a single page cheat sheet PDF guide showing the core steps of the FG knot so you can always have it on hand if you need it… it’s 100% FREE!
The FG Knot Surprise
When I first saw the FG knot, I just knew my favorite line-to-line knot at the time was going to demolish it.
Why?
Well, the FG knot only consisted of a series of braided line wraps squeezing the end of fluorocarbon leader… it didn’t even double-back the leader line like all the others… at first I thought it was laughable!
My theory about this tiny knot being weak was so fixed in my mind that I truly did believe I made an error tying my favorite knot when the FG knot beat mine on the first test (the test consisted of me tying them both to a single strand of line and then pulling on it until the weaker knot busted).
However, this incredibly thin FG knot completely humbled me that day as I re-tested it multiple times before realizing that my “unbeatable” knot wasn’t quite as good as I thought.
It then went on to win the line-to-line knot contest I held in January by a significant margin (over 30% as shown in the final four pic below), so I was quick to adopt it as my new favorite.
And this FG knot has done nothing but completely impress me ever since.
In fact, I’ve even tested it against every knot recommendation that has come in since posting the FG knot video shown below that somehow went viral on YouTube, and it has continually held its spot at the top… even against very popular knots like the Crazy Alberto, Surgeon, and double line knots like the bimini twist to a bristol.
How to Tie the FG Knot
There are several ways to tie the FG knot. The first way I learned to tie the FG knot was extremely time-consuming, so I was against even recommending this knot given how long it took to tie.
However, I then learned this short-cut method shown that has allowed me to now be able to tie it in under 1 minute, so I now recommend the FG knot for anglers who uses braided fishing line given that it’s both the strongest and thinnest knot that I’ve ever tested, and it can be tied fast if you do it using the method shown below.
Here’s a video showing the short-cut method to quickest and easiest way to tie the FG knot… just click on the image below to watch the video.
FG Knot Video
Free FG Knot Guide [PDF]
Click here to get a single page cheat sheet PDF guide showing the core steps of the FG knot so you can always have it on hand if you need it… it’s 100% FREE!
Conclusion
As anglers, our fishing knots are the only thing we have 100% control over when it comes to landing the biggest fish of the day, so we might as well make sure we use the strongest ones out there for each connection… and we must pay special attention to the connection involving the lighter/weaker line since the overall line system is only as strong as its weakest link.
Although tying the FG knot can take a bit longer than many others (especially when first learning it), it is worth using in my opinion because it has consistently been proving to outperform the others… even while being the thinnest option out there.
Please know that I’m by no means saying it’s the strongest knot known to man… just that it’s the strongest of the many I’ve tested it against for directly connecting braid to fluorocarbon.
Note: If you have a line-to-line knot that you’d like me to try it against, just leave a comment below (or send an email to fish@saltstrong.com) and I’ll be sure to include it in the next round of knot strength analysis.
Related Posts:
1. The Best Fishing Knots Of All Time [Ranked Strongest To Weakest]
2. How To Tie The Perfect Leader Assembly For Inshore Fishing
3. What Is The Proper Drag Tension To Use For A Fishing Reel?
P.S. – Be sure to share this post with any of your fishing friends who use braided line because they may not yet know about this very strong and thin braid to leader knot.
Free FG Knot Guide [PDF]
Click here to get a single page cheat sheet PDF guide showing the core steps of the FG knot so you can always have it on hand if you need it… it’s 100% FREE!
![How To Tie The Haywire Twist The Quick & Easy Way [Wire Leader Knot]](https://s17371.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/haywire_twist-250x175.jpg "How To Tie The Haywire Twist The Quick & Easy Way [Wire Leader Knot]")
Have you ever tested the J knot for joining fluoro to braid? I have successfully used it for a few years but never tested it against other knots.
After watching this video a couple of years ago ( when I joined SS) , I have used it exclusively , tying it only before I am on the water as my eyes and fingers don’t work so good anymore. I use the double uni on the water. This not is superior to anything else and I thank you for teaching me the best way to tie it. The only thing I do differently, as my eyes are not focused when holding the braid in my mouth, is I tie the braid to a heavy mug on my desk for the tension. Thanks again, and thanks for Salt Strong. It is well worth the annual dues!
Hi!
Fishing guy here from Sweden! 🙂
Have been reading som of your posts about knots. REALLY interesting and feels good that you have som “facts” with The tests. Not the classical I know the best, use it all the time bla bla..
My Question are know. I am gonna make my own leader now for the northern pike (muskie little brother) and I am not sure what knot to use.
Leader is hard mono and main line braided.
Whould you go the the fg knot? Or the rapala knot that gives your plastic/Rubber bait more free motion? Or the doubble ginner knot that my friend uses. Is The rapala knot weaker then the fg knot?
Best regards Victor
I am having trouble with this knot. Only about 1 out of 10 look like yours .The rest look like the leader has “balled up” on itself. I wonder if I am putting too much tension on the braid or too much tension on the leader. Very few commenters have complained about the ease of tying this knot but I wonder if those like me are just not commenting. I use a double uni for braid to leader and really like the thinner profile of the FG and want to get it to work.
What lines are you using (strength and brand)?
Braid: Suffix 832 40#
Leader: Yo-Zuri Fluoro carbon 15#
Good thought…I just grabbed some “extra” stuff I had. Maybe be I should be using a lighter braid and a heavier flouro
the last knot it used to lock in the wraps seemed to look like a clove hitch to me / killer looking knot / will use it next time
Wonder if this could work to tie on a swordfish wind on of 200-300lb mono with 80-100lb braid.
Can this knot be used to tie leader to a floating flyline or is just for braid???
I spent many years in Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, & Explorers (for BS over 18), + 20 yrs in the military, so I’m disappointed in your lack of proper knot terminology!! Many Scouts, military, farmers, boaters & climbers would recognize your so-called ‘Hitch Knots’ as a ‘Half-Hitch’ knots!! Also, the ‘knot’ where you run the leader from one side of the braided line to the other, which, if run back under itself each time, reminds me of the ‘Sheep-Shank’ knot, which I was told was also one of the strongest knots, especially when trying to connect two lines of different diameters, again, essentially what you are doing when connecting that leader to the braided line!!
Richard A. Moors, AQ1 U.S. Navy (Retired) (Life Scout, Explorer, & Corn-fed Buckeye Farm Boy)
Anonymous you are quite the hero. As we all know, knots only work when we use the correct (in your mind) nomenclature. Thank you for setting us straight. Let’s all go over to your very popular website and critique your nomenclature.
I’ll wait.
I bet you have LOTS of friends.
I agree. In the context of people who fish, it’s a freakin’ FG knot. Try your technical jargon in some other forum where appropriate, Moore-on. You obviously don’t know much about communication. The effectiveness of communication is judged by the response that you get. Try going into a fishing shop talking about your “correct” terminology and see what response you get.
Really that’s what you have to say
David Tyson
Since you want to be technical the sheep shank is a knot used to shorten a length of rope. Sheet bend connects 2 lines of different diameter and also has a very different way of tying it. The running the line back over itself is more similar to a whip knot.
I would also like to add that I typically fish hard and fast as long as the conditions agree
I have used both this knot and the double uni. They both are strong and both last about the same amount of time when reeled thru the guides. The solution for either knot is retie every 30 mins or have numerous rods with the same rig you are catching the fish on. Longer fluorocarbon equals more big bites and maximizing fishing time equals more chances at big bites.
Thanks for making time to leave the helpful comment Beau!
Seagaur knot mono to mono
After struggling with the FG coming out correctly I found a video on You Tube that shows how to tie it on slack line which will work better for me when fishing from the Yak. Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQmUN0L4F6c
That is the first way I learned how to tie the FG knot. It of course does work, but I found that the tension method achieved a more consistently strong connection because it ensures that the coils are laying together at the same tension before getting cinched down (plus I can tie the tension method much faster).
Here’s a post showing an adjustment to the tension method that I use when out in a kayak: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/tying-fg-knot-in-kayak/
Hey Luke, do you use a swivel anywhere? if not will the baited hook and lure turn around and around while retrieving?
I only use a swivel if using a lure that is very prone to twisting my line (like a spoon or a trolling skirt). Otherwise, I prefer line to line because that can get a stronger connection and it is one less piece of tackle that I need to worry about having with me:)
Thanks Luke, I can’t wait to try this!
Can this knot be used like a nail knot on fly line?
I have not yet tried to tie the FG knot on fly line before, so I’m not sure. I’ll add it to my list of connections to test out.
Luke – have you tried this knot? I have some trouble with the FG – Thanks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijL8aMkLHKw
I have tried a version of this knot (Slim Beauty), and I did not like it. The strength wasn’t as good as most others, and the threading of the braid through the small loops is something that is tough to do when out on a boat or kayak in windy/rough conditions. The 6 turn surgeon knot is much easier to tie, and it’s stronger too.
Thanks Luke
Why will my knot not lock down?
What lines are you using?
Mine won’t lock either. The leader pulls out
OK it’s great for leader to main line but can I use it for mono backing to main line 80# mono to 80# braid
TKS
I would recommend the crazy alberto knot or the double uni for connecting to the backing.
THANKS MUCHLY
Hi I was wondering if you have tried to snell a hook with a knotless knot. It’s what I use to tie all my hooks and i have never had a problem. It’s the fastest easiest way I have found to snell a hook. I have never tested it though. Thanks
Why don’t you tie the hook to the braided line?
Because it’s not as resistant to abrasion from a fish’s mouth (https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/braid-vs-mono-abrasion-strength-experiment/), and it’s much more visible to fish than clear mono/fluoro line.
For inshore saltwater, the best line combination we’ve found so far is to use light braid for the mainline to maximize casting distance (aka – cover more water in less time), and then tie on a couple of feet of stronger mono/fluoro to beef up the business end.
Can this be used with larger lines like 50# braid and 80-100# leader?
Yes, I use the FG knot for 40 lb braid to 80 lb leader, so I’m sure that the extra step up on both sides should be fine too.
Thank you…really dont wanna lose a Tarpon…lol
Great video. Thanks for showing us how to do this. So now I’m wondering. What if I put some super glue on the knot after it’s finished? Just curious, since when I make a wind on leader, after the serve is done, I was told to glue the serve. Would this make it any better???
Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment Kevin! Some people do use super glue on the FG knot. I personally do not because I don’t want to have to deal with waiting on the glue to dry. And if it’s a glue that hardens when dried, then it’s at risk of damaging the line because the knot will eventually condense more when under high pressure, and if the glue cracks there could be sharp glue edges that end up comprising the line.
Who invented the FG kNOT
I am not sure who invented the FG knot. I’ve heard that it was a fishing guide somewhere in south FL who developed it after drinking a good amount of beers with the idea to recreate a Chinese finger trap premise with fishing line… but I have no idea if that’s true or not.
While there is no proof to the theory posed above – I do know several fishing guides and most do drink a beer or two and a bar is as good a place as any to invent things. I know some of the best ideas I have ever had came to me in a bar. Exception being if Tequila is involved. Not the best idea producing spirit from personal experience.
That was the best instructional vid I’ve seen on tying Flourocarbon to braid, and I’m a old dude.
Will it work with leadcore line?
I have not yet tried the FG knot with leadcore line so I unfortunately can’t say for certain if it works or not. Definitely be sure to test it out before you use it on the water to be safe.
Does fg work on regular mono
Yes, braid to traditional mono works great (that’s what I use most often).
How do you tie a half hitch in the braid when it’s on you’re rod an reel , you had to untie it from the chair ?
The half hitch is done with the tag end of the braid at the end of the FG knot.
Luke – sorry – forgot link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQmUN0L4F6c
Yes, this is the type of tying method that I did when I first learned the FG Knot. I prefer the tension method because it’s faster and it seems to have a more consistently strong hold because the tension is more evenly applied throughout all of the coils.
thanks Luke
Luke- Have you seen this? Start at 5:00 mark of video
Hey mate. Good stuff there. That is a great way to get that fg tied. Couple observations. There is no such thing as a “hitch knot”. It is either a hitch or a knot. So in finishing the fg you are using half hitches to finish the knot. Also, may be good to mention that wrapping braid around your hand to pull and set the knot is a good way to give yourself a helluva cut. I know it works for the demo, but in practice probably not a good method. Thanks for posting. Keep up the good work. Tight lines!
Just joined the Insider Club and sorting all through the great information. My first comment here…
I found the video for the FG knot some time ago and have been using it with success…as long as the knot remains outside the tip guide during casting and using leader material of higher test than the braid.
My question is…if using 12# high vis mono for backing on a Quantum Cabo 400 reel and then 150 yards of 20# Power Pro high vis braid, will the FG knot between the backing and braid likely fail if I catch that once in a lifetime fish that takes me into the backing?
Thanks for all the great info!
Bill
Just re watched the video after watching the video on the three things that can go wrong with the knot.
I learned that its realy important to lock the knot with one half hitch in one direction, pull tight and then another half hitch in the opposite direction. This locks the half hitches. So if your first half hitch starts out over the main and mono you up and through. Then do anotherhalf hitch but go under both lines down through the loop. When you get it right both half hitches line up and the lines are next to eachother exiting in the same direction. Now its locked. Then finish as the video shows.
Another technique i use to start the wrap
Take the main line and wrap it around a button on my fishing shirt. A few wraps, so when i lean the fishing pole away from me I have constant tension on the main line. Now take the mono and hold it in your left hand and hold it at 90 degrees to the main line. Start the wrap by bending the mono behind the main line and then come back to 90. Now bend the main line behind the other side of the main line and come back to 90. This should give you your first wrap. Do a few more and keep the mono at 90. Push the wraps down to the fist wrap as you pull the main line tight around the leader. Continue till you are ready to finish the knot with the half hitch.
An amazing knot! My new favorite. Rivals the Improve Clinch for how often I am using it. I use surgeon knots instead of hitch on the end. Less likely to come undone. Thank you with all my fishing passion!
Started using the FG knot 5 years ago. 30# spiderwire to 50# fluorocarbon leader. As long as you keep it snug when tying. Works great. Use gloves to snug up. Have had line break but never at knot.
Knot is low profile, so will slide through guides easily for longer casts.
This knot cost me a $25 lire I the Cape Cod Canal after casting maybe 5 times the knot unraveled and the mono and my lure launched into the middle on the canal . I will not use it on any situation again .
Sorry to see that the FG knot somehow slipped on you. What lines were you using?
Can the FG knot be used on monofilament line
The FG knot is great for braid to mono connections.
But it does not work for mono to mono.
thats because you did it wrong.
Love this knot – thanks for the easier method.
That FG knot might take a tiny bit longer than the one I’ve been doing,but the one I’ve been doing isn’t reliable. Going to do this for all my rods.
I hope that you enjoy this FG knot as much as we do. Fish On!
Tied my first FG just 5 min ago. Using 15# J-Braid x4 with 30# Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon. Got a cataract in my right eye so I’m blind in one eye and can’t hear out the other…fingers must be losing sensitivity as I could barely feel that thin braid line. No problem with the fluro. Holding the line tight in my teeth I needed to smile a big toothy grin as I almost cut through my lip with that thin line. Got it wrapped up and fumbled a half hitch on it. Let my cramping hands rest just a bit then put the other half hitch on. Cut fluro and threw on 4 more half hitches to help cover the fluro stub. Cut the braid (need better scissors as the stub looks frayed) Seems to be holding but was afraid to pull tighter for fear of slicing through my fingers…yes with the thin braid. Did I mention that the braided line is very thin?
All in all I call it a success and I think it will hold. If it doesn’t, I’ll let you know that it was the biggest fish I ever hooked into and it was his fault.
Just an update. Yesterday I went out for only 45 minutes before heading to my volunteer job. Divito Park is on the way so I stopped there. After a half dozen casts I checked my FG knot. I would have lost my bucktail jig on the next cast. The problem I think was the fluoro tag end kept hitting the final eye on my rod causing it to loosen up. I’ll try again and if no luck, I’ll try one of the competitor knots.
I recommend making a point to not reel or cast the FG knot (or any other knot) through rod guides on a continuous basis because the impact of the continuous hits will weaken it. Here’s a post that explains the details behind that: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/fg-knot-mistake/
Thanks for the reply and late on a Friday night! I probably saw that post because I remember that being said. And I agree. That is why I will probably switch over to a more rod guide tolerant knot. The reason for that is I watched the video post on leaders. I like the idea of tying on a 3′ to 4′ leader so I only have to tie the “easier” knot every time I have to re-hook due to sharp mouthed fish bites. Until I start getting bites, I will give the FG a few more chances on shorter leaders.
I can’t trust a knot they works by cutting grooves into the leader. Braid – leader Size have to be a match etc…and is a pain to tie…
Alberto Albright and slim beauty all work great.
Of those knots, the Alberto knot tested out best in the tests that I have done.
Yep that’s my go to. Then Albright with a leader 10lb or under.. (Alberto breaks 10lb line) and slim beauty with smaller guides (not because it’s smaller but because the braid rests ahead of the leader knot which protects the knot from catching or taking damage just ahead of the knot on the guides).
I fish offshore and we use 200 yards of 80 to 100lb mono topshot tied to 80 to 100lb braid ..will this knot work with that heavy of mono ?
This FG knot does work for heavy mono, but the braid needs to be lighter to ensure that the grooves are deep enough in the outer layer of the mono to never slip off.
I have a knot that has never broke. The floro will before knot.. however I have no idea the name but I’ll explain kinda how it’s done… take your tag end of floro and make a loop.. then take your tag end of braid and run through the loop.. after it’s through loop, make 5 or 6 wraps down. After your last wrap. Turn around and start wrapping back towards your loop 8 to 10 times.. after u finish wrapping. Take your braid tag end and past it through the loop on the opposite side from where u initially started after u made your loop.. wet your floro n hold tag end in mouth, then sench down.. may need to help braid but once senched down, pull lines tight n cut ends………… only my problem with fg knot is it unravels… Thanks n try out…
It sounds as if you’re referring to the Crazy Albero knot. Here’s an experiment that I did in testing the knot strength of the Crazy Alberto to the FG knot in case you’re interested: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/albright-vs-alberto-vs-fg-knot/
Note: When you say that your FG knot is unraveling, are you using a series of hitch knots? IF so, they def should not come apart (I use a total of 4, and have not yet had any issues with them coming undone).
Why not (pun intended) place a drop of superglue or Pliobond right at your your trimmed end of the locking half hitches?
Have you tested it against the PR knot? They look almost identical after they’re tied but in all the tests I’ve seen the PR always comes out on top
Knot don’t work on 200 pound line
It worked for me
Hi Luke,
I love the info on SaltStrong so keep it coming!
I am going to be doing some freshwater fishing in N. Georgia next week. After doing research, I see that most of the fishermen up there tend to use 4-6lb leaders. I use 10lb braid on all of our reels and I am wondering what knot you would recommend to attach a lighter leader to braid?
We will only be up there for a week and I don’t want to bother respooling any reels.
D
Thanks for the kind words Doug! I recommend the double uni knot for connecting a 10 lb braid to a lighter leader because it does a great job at protecting both lines regardless of strengths/diameters.
Here’s a link to see a review on the Uni knot: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/uni-knot/
luke – have you tested this knot?
https://www.facebook.com/583771745097430/videos/1095175133957086/UzpfSTEwMDAwMDExODkxODM5ODoxMDcyNzI4NDI5NTQyNTE1/
If I have 30lb braid reeled onto my reel, what lb floro should I tie to it?
It mostly depends on what size and species of fish that you’re targeting. What is your plan for that setup?
Luke, I love this knot but today I lost a 34″ cobia at the boat? When I took pressure off the fish and grabbed the leader the knot came undone of the Floro and the thing swam away!!!! Ever have this happen and or what do you think I did wrong? Only thing I could think is the floro stretched and became thinner ??
Hey Eric, sorry to hear about the cobia that got away. The FG knot is totally dependent on the very first coil staying tight and in place. My guess is that it did not dig into the leader far enough so that when your hand slid up the leader, it put enough pressure on that first coil to loosen up which in turn caused the rest of the coils to pull up as well.
Essentially, the FG knot is like one of those Chinese Finger Traps where it is incredibly strong when the force applied to it comes from the rod/reel, but it can be compromised when force comes to it from the lure/hook side while the main line does not have tension on it.
Thanks Luke ! All makes sense now but damn I was smelling cilantro on my ceviche!! Hindsight, I should have used the net………….
Luke – have you ever heard of the RP (Royal Palms) knot?
thanks
I just looked it up, and it appears to be the same thing as the Crazy Albero knot which is popular in FL (no idea which one was created first).
Here’s a strength test I did on the FG knot vs. the Crazy Alberto where you can see how it’s tied: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/albright-vs-alberto-vs-fg-knot/
Will this knot work on regular carbon line??
informative video!! thx
Yes, this FG knot will work for connecting a Yozi Carbon Fluoro leader line to a braid mainline.
Thank you for all your tips and sharing your knowledge with everyone. I have used everything that I’ve learned with much success.
Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment on this FG knot video, Manny. Fish On!
Joe, excellent demo. I commend you on your ability to answer so many questions with detail ,and above all, PATIENCE. YOU ARE GOOD. Thanks
Excellent demo!! Thanks!!!!
Can you do this with fly line and leader?
I have not yet tried this FG knot with fly line.
Hmm, not sure you’d want to do that to your expensive fly line. Essentially you’d have to strip the coating off a large section of the line in order to have enough braid to work with. Best connection I have found for this is the Needle Nail knot (optional coating w/Pliobond) which essentially works by a similar squeezing action to prevent slippage. And you couldn’t go with braided leader because you’d end up with a hinging effect and your cast would collapse. Your fly line needs a continuance of pushing motion as it unrolls from your casting loop through the stiff leader butt and on down the tapered mono to the fly in order for the whole cast to lay out.
I don’t use braid I use Fireline. This knot don’t work well with Fireline. Any recommendations?
The double uni knot is a solid choice.
Someone told me a long time ago that to strengthen my knots, to put a drop of super glue on it. I’m sure I’ll get severely chastised for this, but, right or wrong?
I commonly hear about people who use super glue on their knots. I personally do not use it because some glues can do more harm than good because they can crack when the lines continue to constrict while being placed under more and more tension as it approaches its max capacity, and any sharp edges will damage the line.
How about Pliobond?
Great illustration on your part and really made it an easy knot to tie. Heading to Toledo Bend in the morning and will try it.
So glad to see that you enjoyed this FG knot tutorial. I hope you enjoy this knot as much as I do. Fish On!
braid to flouro, how about mono or one of the hybrid/combo line types? Same knot?
Just to be safe, I’d recommend using the Double Uni knot as shown in this post: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/uni-knot/
Double nail knot
Do you have an article on the benefits of using the fluorocarbon leader vs. tying directly to braid?
Nothing formal. But I have noticed a significant different in catching pinfish for bait using hook and line when 20 lb mono or fluoro leader tied to the end of the braid catches a lot more fish than tying directly to 10 lb braid.
Cool. Really nice. Thanks
i know this knot will hole, but are you against using swivels to do this line to line, just asking ….????
I rarely use swivels simply because they are not necessary in most cases and can do more harm than good. Here’s a post that dives into the specifics: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/fishing-leader-with-swivel/
Watched the video, tried the knot. I was skeptical and tested the knot using a fish scale. 30 lb braid to 20 lb fluorocarbon. The knot held, the flouro failed as expected, but the break was well away from the knot. Repeated the same test for verification. Same result. I was surprised. I am still curious to know if the characteristics of the braid may allow it to loosen up over time as some have reported. The tiny size, smoothness, and strength of the knot is impressive. The longevity will take some time to test but I will try and give it a fair test.
The FG knot is designed to protect a lighter braid from breaking when tied to a stronger leader. I do not recommend this knot for a 30 lb braid to a 20 lb leader because the leader will get weakened and the knot will be prone to slip off due to the thicker braid not being able to dig the necessary grooves into the outer layer of the leader for permanently locking into place.
If you’re using 20 lb leader often, then I highly recommend switching to a 10 lb or 15 lb braid because you’ll get much better casting performance (https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/casting-distance-experiment-10-vs-20-braid/) without losing much (if any) overall strength of your line assembly.
Mr. Simonds, given that typical 30lb braid is .011 diameter and 20lb fluorocarbon is .016 diameter, please explain what you mean by thicker braid.
The FG knot works better and better as the ratio of the braid’s diameter relative to the leader’s diameter gets smaller and smaller. And its risk of losing its grip increases as the braid’s diameter gets closer to the diameter of the leader. This is because the FG knot is held into place by the braid coils digging small groves into the outer layer of the leader. These groves are easier to be formed with the thinner braid (benefit #1). And the braid coils will be much more protected from getting compromised from the knot getting casting through rod tip guides as the braid diameter continues to get thinner and thinner relative to the leader due to having less exposed braid surface that hits the rod’s guides (huge benefit for those who cast knots through guides… this is the biggest risk to the FG knot failing).
So if targeting a fish that can be caught on a 20 lb leader, I highly recommend bumping down to a 10 lb braid because you’ll still have plenty of power and your casting and feeling of strikes will improve assuming you’re using spinning gear. In testing the breaking strength of my 10 lb braid tied to a 30lb leader with this FG knot, the breaking point was typically in the 20 to 23 lb range… which is more than enough to handle most inshore fish.
Thank you Luke for your for your very detailed response. Excellent explanation!
I’m a long time fisherman and this is the first time I have seen this knot…. and it is awesome! Question I have is if you have tested it to join braid backing to FlyLine?? Curious if there is any chance the braid wraps will pull off the flyline coating?
I have not yet tested the FG knot on flyline. My worry is that it won’t work because the key for it’s ability to never slip off is the thin braid’s ability to dig grooves into the outer layer of the leader… I don’t believe that the thicker flyline will be able to do that.
Luke, I meant tying the braid flyline backing onto the thick fly line instead of a leader . I will test this out and see how it does. Agreed it does not make sense on the flyline to leader connection.
As a new inshore fisherman (Indian River Lagoon) I am using the same knots I use for fly fishing. Surgeon s loop on the braid and on the leader & run one through the other. What potential problems will I have with this system
Assuming that you’re using a light braid to maximize your casting distance and a stronger leader to handle the business end, the surgeon loop on the braid will be the weak point so that should be the main concern. From my testing, the FG knot is the best know because it’s very strong (prob 30%+ compared to the surgeon loop) and it is the thinnest knot I’ve ever used. Here’s a tutorial showing how to tie it: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/fg-knot/
Tried it, a lil sloppy at first but got my first one done. Stress the tension needed as you do the 20 loops, the first few I did came undone. I think I have it know, great advice.
Well done David! Glad to see that you got it to work. Hope you enjoy this FG knot as much as I have.
Luke – tied my first F G today. A little sloppy, but feels strong. A little tougher to tie than the double uni, but I guess it’s worth it.
Well done. I’ll only get easier from there.
THANKS FOR THE DEMO.
My pleasure!
Thanks for making us understand through a demo.
My pleasure! I’m glad to see that you enjoyed this FG knot video.
I am older and my sight and dexterity is not what it used to be. I use swivels most of the time to attach leader. Is this a problem?
Swivels are ok to use. My preference is without them since they require an extra knot and weight down the line. But placing a swivel in between the main line and the leader is ok.
I’ve had problems with my line breaking, always while casting, the knot is intact and the mono broken right at the Albright. I’ve recently started surf fishing for stripers where I’m casting heavy plugs which seems to make this worse (and quite expensive). How well does this knot hold up with heavy impact going through the eyes of the rod which is where my issue has always been.
The FG knot is at risk of coming apart if it’s casted through that guides on a constant basis.
WHAt is an FG knot? What does FG stand for?
I believe that the FG stands for Fine Grip
Just got back from the ReelAnimals show in Tampa. All the guides are using a bimini twist to a uni to get a doubled braid on the leader. Would like to see a comparison. How much does the bimini twist work as a shock/stretch ?
I tested the FG knot against a bimini twist with a uni on the doubled braid and the FG knot still pulled ahead (while being much faster to tie relative to the two-knot combo).
Here’s a link to see the test results: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/fg-knot-vs-bimini-twist-knot-strength-test/
I must say a very elegant knot. I do mostly finesse fishing so use very light line. I tried the knot on 6lbs HMPE Braid (it is a silky type of braid) did about 22 twists onto 8lbs fluro but the fluro still pulled out. Increased to 32 twists much better initial hold but it was as if the fluro slowly worked its way out of the knot till it reaches a slipping point.
Any suggestions?
If you’re getting slippage, you’ll need to use less coils because you need more pressure per coil for them to dig into the mono… try 14 ot 16.
And then make sure that the overall knot strength is still stronger than any others you like to tie.
can you use this knot on heavy braided line like 65 or even 100 bl and tie it to 50-75 leader or is just for lighter lines
The FG knot is designed to protect a braid line from breaking when tied to a stronger leader, so I do not recommend using it to connect a 50 lb leader to a 65+ lb braid.
But if it’s a 65 lb braid to a 100+ lb leader, then it should work great.
Hi when I click to get the PDF print out I get error 604
any suggedtiond please
That must have been some sort of glitch. I just tested it out and all appears to be working properly. Please go ahead and try it again.
Just tied 25 FG knots 30# braid to 10# flour looks great will this line combo hold up fishing?
I do not recommend the FG knot for that connection because it is designed to protect a braided line from breaking when connected to a stronger mono/fluoro leader. Instead, use a 6 turn surgeon’s knot because it does the best job at equally protecting both lines.
I love the knot. I do use the extra 2 hitches at the finish to try to cover the mono. My problem with the knot is that after casting a while the braid hitch knots loosen and I begin to get a tag of loose braid. I can use a small drop of glue on the braid tag end but that does add a touch of hardness to what is a nice smooth and soft knot. Any suggestions? This question may have already been answered in the long comment section and if I missed it I apologize.
Sounds like one of two issues are at play… 1) the hitch knots are not cinched down hard enough… easy fix is to apply more pressure. or 2) you’re casting the knot through your rod guides too often… I highly recommend not making a habit of casting knots through guides because they will weaken any knot if done too many times. Here’s a post that specifically addresses this problem and how to fix it: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/casting-mistake-fishing-tip/
Small drop of super glue will solve that
Me too , also try clear fingernail polish. I have caught 40 lb reds and a few casts later I had knot failure with no load , then I added super glue and no failure after hundreds of casts. Best knot ever ,but don’t forget the super glue.
When I go after big fish, and I have braid to mono, I always tie a double polymar. Takes a little time but super strong and knot is not that big
This is by far the best knot for braid to mono or braid to fluoro. I have never lost a fish at that knot. As a matter of fact I caught a 250# swordfish and many tuna and mahi with it. It s easiest, strongest and thinnest knot on tie
Glad to see that you’re enjoying the FG knot too. Fish On!
OMG you just cut my offshore prep time by hours! Having to make leaders and swivels, and baits…. TYVM!!!!
Yep! The FG knot is a game-changer (and massive time saver)
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MY son recently brought a 100 pound plus tarpon and a 175 pound plus bull shark to boat on braid/ fluorocarbon joined with the FG . Great knot thanks for the “how to’.I add a tiny touch of super glue to lock in the tag end of the braid after it is trimmed
How awesome! Glad to see that you’re enjoying the FG knot. Fish On!
This knot can be such a pain great job simplifying it
Our pleasure Chris. Glad to see that you enjoyed this FG knot video. Fish On!
I’ve been tying this knot since watching your video, I’m a believer! My knots are tight and strong, now my buddies are asking me to teach them how to tie the knot.
Hey Leonard, I’m glad to see that you’re enjoying the FG knot. Thanks for teaching it to others as well. Fish On!
Been doing this knot with 50# Braid and 65# Mono leader material. No matter what I do the braid will not grip into the mono leader. It finishes great and looks fantastic for running through guides, but after a pull test it simply slides off.
Thinner lines (20# Braid & 40# mono) works great and holds.
Something I’m doing wrong or is this knot used only for certain poundage or leader material?
It works great for me when using 30 lb braid to 50 lb to 100 lb leader, so I’m guessing that the thicker braid relative to the leader is having a tough time digging its groves into the outer layer of the leader. My suggestion would be to use less coils so that the ones you make dig in with more force (try 14 to 16 coils vs. the 18 to 20 mentioned in the video).
I will use this for tying on the boat line connections. Have you compared this knot with using hollow core connection that would be done before going fishing?
I have not tried the FG knot using hollow core connection. Let me know if you find that it works. Fish On!
We don’t like it. You waste to much line and expensive leader materials. Besides that where’s your swivel gonna go?
I’m confused about the comment about wasting too much leader… there should not be any more unused tag end with the FG knot compared to most other knots (I’ll typically just have to cut off an inch and a half).
This line to line knot can be used in place of a swivel to connect two lines… it saves time in not having to tie two knots on each end of the swivel and its connection is equally as strong.
Sounds like he’s just a troll mate… considering he thinks to ad a swivel… (what a joke)
Its obvious that the waste on an FG knot is absolute minimal compared to almost all others.
The ease of watching your video and how well the instructions were conveyed, made me watch your others…
Thumbs up from New Zealand!
Thanks for the support Garry. Glad to see that you enjoyed our FG knot video. Fish On!
Can you use an fg knot to tie a leader to a fresh water fly line
I have not yet tried the FG knot on fly line. Please let us know if it works.
Thanks for sharing this FG knot I guess I’ll be practicing that tomorrow at work.
Your site is great. Would this knot be good for tying Rio’s Wire Bite tippet 20# to 40# braid?
For that matter, what”s the best knot for tying 20# Wire Bite to 20# fluoro?
After watching the video many time I tried to tie the FG knot. 25# Yozuri mono leader. I could not get the tension in the mono to lay flat on the braid. Is the leader too heavy ?
There is no such thing as a leader that’s too heavy for the FG knot… it gets easier to tie as the leader increases relative to the size of the braid. And it gets tougher to tie as the strength of the leader is closer to the strength of the braid…. especially if the rated braid strength is heavier than the leader. If you’re using a braided line that’s over 25# with that leader, I recommend switching over to the 6 turn surgeon’s knot.
luv ya work buddy
Awesome knot. Thanks for sharing. TJ
Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment. Glad to see that you enjoyed this FG knot tutorial. Tight Lines!
nice!
I’ve tried the Nanofil and the only thing I did different is that I made 26 wraps instead of the twenty. Seems to be holding great. We’ll see when it’s tested on the water though.
Have you tried the FG with Nanofil?
Not yet. I’ll be sure to pick up some Nanofil to give it a shot next chance I get. Tight Lines!
Can this be used on mono to mono with close to same size?
The FG knot is not good for mono to mono connections. Here’s a link to a strength test done on mono to mono lines: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/strongest-line-to-line-knot/
Very interesting knot…I will try it for sure
Great thanks
Going to go try to tie the knot now. Looks like a great skinny knot. Get back with you later
Wish I knew what I was doing wrong on the FG knot. I tied it several times and loved it, but the past 4-5 attempts have let go. I set it until I almost cut myself with the braid before clipping mono tag end. Even started leaving a little extra tag on mono. Reviewed video 20 times & pretty sure I’m not missing anything. Next step might be to wear gloves when setting knot.
Have you seen this FG mistake video? This is the most common reason for FG knot slippage: https://www.saltstrong.com/articles/fg-knot-mistake/
Si
Sounds like you’re tying it right… what lines are you using? The FG knot is designed specifically for protecting a light braid that’s connected to a stronger leader, so my assumption is that you’re either using a heavy braid tied to a lighter leader or whichever lines you’re using are not meshing well with this knot.
Tying 30lb PowerPro to either 40lb or 50lb mono. Don’t see much I can screw up on doing the wraps. Even gone back and made sure I’m initiating the wraps away from me with mono over braid, wrapping mono under braid and pulling tight. Don’t feel like it’s really digging in when I cinch it down, but again, I’m putting enough pressure that I’m afraid to cut my hands with the mono. I’m wondering if I have too much tension on the braid when making the wraps. I’ve not been lubricating the wraps when I go to set it. Not sure if that would make any difference. Also wondering if the wraps are too close together before cinching, which could possibly interfere with the “finger trap” effect.
Correction: ……cut my hands with the “braid”.
The FG knot should def work with those lines.
You may be right about having too much pressure on the braid when making the wraps… there needs to be some space to allow room for the braid coils to dig groves into the outer layer of the mono. Try a bit less tension and see if that works (I tie mine while standing and just have the rod leaning away at a ~45 degree angle… which creates just enough tension to keep the coils organized).
The more I think about it the more I’m convinced that’s the problem. Even after making the wraps I seem to remember they were very close together, not spread out along the leader. I think what’s happening is that they cinch just the last few wraps, but not along the entire series of wraps.
That 45 degree thing doesn’t work so well with a 12′ surf rod with 7000 Ambassador reel. I’ve been putting one end in my mouth and pulling directly against the reel, with the rod/reel laying across my lap. Guess I’m going to have to start carrying a spare TV remote in my tackle box! 🙂
Haha… yep, the tv remote worked well in the demo.
With a long rod like that you can stand it up and then wrap the line around a rod eye that is about head level before leaning it away from you (I do that when tying it in a kayak… it lessens the pressure and keeps the line right in front of your face making it easy to see).
Love it! Great demonstration. Great knot. Thank you!
Love the FG knot! Could I use it tie my filler (or backing) line to my mainline to spool my baitcaster? Thanks!
Yes, the FG knot can be used to connect a braided line to a mono/fluoro as a backing connection or a leader connection.