Snell Knot

Difficulty: Medium Strength: Very High Purpose: Hook-to-line
Snell Knot

How to Tie the Snell Knot

  1. Thread the line through the hook eye and extend about 15 cm along the shank.
  2. Form a loop below the hook shank.
  3. Wrap the tag end around the shank and line 5-7 times, working toward the hook bend.
  4. Hold the wraps and pull the standing line to tighten.
  5. Ensure the line exits straight from the top of the hook eye.

Pros

  • Straight-line pull maximizes hook-up rates
  • Very strong — near 100% strength
  • Ideal for bait fishing with circle hooks

Cons

  • Works best only with hooks that have an eye
  • Takes more time than a simple clinch

Best Used For

Bait fishing with circle hooks, drop-shot rigs, and any situation where a straight-pull hook connection is important.