The Palomar Knot is one of the most trusted and widely used fishing knots in the world. Known for its strength, simplicity and excellent performance with mono, fluoro and braided line, the Palomar Knot is the perfect choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
In this Masterclass Series, we break down every knot into fast, clear, step by step tutorials designed to help you learn quickly without confusion. If you want a knot that never slips, holds firm under heavy load and works in almost any fishing scenario the Palomar Knot should be the first knot you master.
🐟 Why the Palomar Knot Is So Good
The Palomar Knot is famous for three reasons:
✅ 1. Extremely High Strength
It consistently tests at 95–100% line strength, making it one of the strongest terminal connection knots.
✅ 2. Perfect for Braid
Unlike many fishing knots, the Palomar does not slip with braided line a huge advantage for lure fishermen.
✅ 3. Very Fast to Tie
Even beginners can learn it in under a minute. No complicated wraps, no risk of crossing lines.
🔧 Step by Step: How to Tie the Palomar Knot
Here’s the exact process:
1. Double your line
Take about 15–20 cm of line and fold it in half.
2. Pass the loop through the hook eye
Make sure both strands go through evenly.
3. Tie a loose overhand knot
Just as if you're starting to tie your shoes but keep it loose enough to pass the hook through.
4. Pass the hook through the loop
Bring the hook through the large loop you created.
5. Moisten & tighten
Pull both ends of the line at the same time until the knot seats neatly against the hook eye.
That’s it Palomar Knot finished.
If you want to see the full process in action, watch my 1 minute Masterclass tutorial here:
👉 YouTube Video: How to Tie the Palomar Knot (Masterclass Series #1)
🎯 When to Use the Palomar Knot
The Palomar Knot performs best in:
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Bass fishing
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Saltwater lure fishing
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Fishing with braid
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Drop shot rigs
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Light and medium spinning setups
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Any situation where knot strength is critical
It’s incredibly reliable which is why so many pro anglers use it for everything from freshwater finesse to heavy saltwater spinning.
🪝 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple knot can fail if done incorrectly. Avoid these:
❌ Twisting the doubled line
Keep both strands parallel.
❌ Tightening before moistening
Friction can weaken the knot.
❌ Looping the hook incorrectly
Always pass the entire hook through the loop.
📌 Why This Knot Belongs in Your Masterclass Series
The Palomar Knot is the foundation of many other fishing knots. By mastering this one knot, you build:
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Better line control
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Understanding of terminal knots
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Confidence when tying knots in low light or tough conditions
It’s the perfect starting knot before moving into more advanced knots like the Improved Clinch, Uni Knot and Snell Knot.
⭐ Recommended Gear for Practicing
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Bright colored braid
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Size 2–2/0 hooks
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Swivels or lures for larger practice loops
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Scissors or braid cutters
