Testing Your Lines and Knots Like a Pro

Ensuring the strength and reliability of your fishing lines and knots is crucial for successful angling. This guide provides simple and inexpensive methods to test the strength of different lines and knots, helping you gain confidence in your tackle setup.

Tools and Materials:

• Two heavy gauge hooks (5/0 or larger)
• One heavy-duty, size five or larger, two-way barrel swivel
• Lines to be tested
• Box-end wrench
• Eye protection and gloves
• Different color marker pens
• Log book for recording results

Test 1: Line Against Line:

• Cut twelve-inch lengths of two different lines to be tested.
• Tie each line to a hook and the opposite end to the swivel.
• Color code each line for identification.
• Apply tension gradually until one line breaks.
• Repeat three times for accuracy.
• Record results for future reference.

Test 2: Terminal Tackle Knot Against Knot:

• Cut an eighteen-inch length of fishing line.
• Tie hooks to each end using different terminal tackle knots.
• Color code each knot for identification.
• Apply tension gradually until one knot breaks.
• Repeat three times for accuracy.
• Record results for future reference.

Test 3: Line-To-Line Knot Against Knot:

• Cut twelve-inch lengths of leader and main line.
• Tie leader and main line to hooks and swivel.
• Tie line-to-line knots between main and leader lines.
• Color code each knot for identification.
• Apply tension gradually until one knot breaks.
• Repeat three times for accuracy.
• Record results for future reference.

Miscellaneous Testing of Terminal Tackle:

• Test hook and swivel strength using heavy lines and variations of previous methods.
• Record results for future reference.

Outcomes:

• Discover discrepancies in line strength between manufacturers.
• Determine the superiority of certain knots for terminal tackle.
• Identify the strongest hooks and swivels for finesse fishing.

By conducting these tests, you can enhance your understanding of your fishing gear’s capabilities and optimize your setup for success on the water. Happy fishing!