Snell Knot

Difficulty: Medium
Strength: High

Best Used For

Hook AttachmentLeader ConnectionDirect Tie

Allows leader or tippet to be tied directly to a hook. Provides excellent hook-setting power.

About the Snell Knot

The Snell Knot is the strongest possible connection between line and hook because it bypasses the hook eye entirely. Instead of threading through the eye, the line is tied directly to the hook shank, creating a straight-line pull that maximizes both strength and hook-setting power. This ancient knot is still the gold standard for bait fishing and bottom rigs.

Best Line Types: Monofilament and fluorocarbon (traditional choice for bait fishing)

Knot Strength: Retains 100% of the line's original strength (strongest hook connection)

When to Use: Perfect for bait fishing, bottom rigs, circle hooks, and any situation where maximum hook-setting power is needed.

Straight-Pull Advantage: Direct connection to hook shank provides superior hook-setting power and eliminates leverage loss.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Thread through hook eye: Pass about 6 inches of line through the hook eye and lay it along the hook shank.
  2. Create wrapping loop: Bring the tag end back to form a loop alongside the hook shank.
  3. Wrap through loop: Pass the tag end through the loop and around the hook shank 5-7 times.
  4. Keep wraps tight: Make sure each wrap is snug against the previous one on the hook shank.
  5. Wet and tighten: Moisten the knot and pull the standing line to tighten the wraps.
  6. Trim excess: Cut the tag end close to the wraps for a clean finish.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

✓ Pro Tips

  • • Strongest possible hook connection (100% strength)
  • • Perfect for bait fishing and bottom rigs
  • • Provides superior hook-setting power
  • • Essential for circle hook applications
  • • Traditional choice for serious bait anglers

⚠ Common Mistakes

  • • Not making enough wraps (5-7 needed)
  • • Allowing wraps to overlap or bunch up
  • • Not keeping wraps tight against hook shank
  • • Pulling too hard during tightening
  • • Using with hooks that have very small eyes

Video Tutorial

Related Knots

Uni Knot

Versatile knot that can be used for hooks, lures, and swivels. Easy to tie and adjust....

Easy Medium

Rapala Knot

A non-slip loop knot that allows lures to move more freely, enhancing their action in the water....

Medium High

Albright Knot

Used to join different types or thicknesses of fishing line. Great for connecting heavy leader to li...

Medium High