2025.11.25

The Improved Clinch Knot: a timeless classic. The standard clinch knot was used by sailors as early as the 19th century. When nylon fishing lines first appeared in the 1930s and 1940s, fishermen noticed that the standard clinch knot would sometimes slip and untie when pulled sharply by a large fish. In response, someone (legend attributes this to American bass fishermen) added one simple yet ingenious touch—a final pass of the running line.

The Palomar Knot: simple, reliable, and almost perfect. Of all the fishing knots, the Palomar remains one of the few I have no serious complaints about. It's as easy as pie, ties in 4-6 seconds even in complete darkness and with thick gloves, retains 94-97% of the line's breaking strain, and is compatible with almost all types of line.