What line are you using?

[Chris Roberts]

Is everyone here using Mono for gills?  I've never gone lower than #4 line, but I'm curious what everyone else uses.

I'm currently using BassPro #4 Mono, but have been considering switching to a Fluorocarbon.

[Donald Kern]

Trilene XT in solar works extremely well for me. The eyes are getting older and I can see the slighest of bites with it. Berkley discontinued making it in small diam but I believe they recently began producing it again. I bought up some 3000 yd spools

and I now have a lifetime supply. 

 

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

I like the way you think, Don!

Ditto on the eyes, too. LOL

[Craig Stockton]

For 'gills i like P-Line 3# or 4# floroclear line.  It's great for spinning reels.  I also use the San Diego Jam Knot.  The best knot I have ever used.  If you want a strong knot this one is awesome.  After 20 years of selling fishing tackle and line, this so far has been a great combo.  The great thing about the line is that is sinks well, and in California, with clear water most of the time, it is very difficult to see.  It also handles cold water/air very well.

[JBplusThuy]

Wow, I'm from San Diego and had never heard of the SD Jam Knot, had to look it up LOL. Looks like a good knot, but maybe hard to tie for someone with my lack of finger flexibility and coordination :)

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

Otherwise known as the "Reverse Clinch Knot," the San Diego Jam Knot offers a high breaking strength. It kind of reminds me of the snell knots. I've seen ratings as high as 96%, but that can probably be taken with a grain of salt. There are so many factors involved, that no absolute values can be considered gospel. Regardless, it is highly regarded. It seems to be considered a salt water knot, but that's no reason why it cant serve the bluegiller.

The one drawback from my perspective is it is a single loop knot. "Strength" isn't just about the knot. When I feel the need for a stronger knot, I prefer one that doubles the line at the eye. The Trilene Knot (Doubled Clinch Knot) and the Palomar Knot are two that do. When I'm tying pre-rigs at home I try to use the Palomar, out in the field it is mostly the Trilene/Clinch. I suppose you could also double the line for the Sand Diego Knot, if you want.

But after a lot of wrangling and tangled fingers (not to mention squint lines around the eyes), Ive finally hit on the idea that supreme knot strength counts for but little on fish that weigh 10 ounces on average.

[Chris Roberts]

All this talk about knots and I had to look at what I tied. I've never been told what it was called.  My uncle showed me when I was little and I've been tying it ever since.  I gave it no thought at all.

I apparently use the improved clinch knot.  Is there any reason for me to switch?

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

None that I can think of, Chris! When I am not overly concerned about the doubled line link-up, I use the Improved Clinch more than any other. I dont even want to think about how many knots are similar. It is easy to tie (for me) and I've used it now for a very long time. I cannot think of a single time where I could point and say, "See - that Improved Clinch failed!"

There are a lot of good knots... tons, really. How many does the good angler need? About 5.

[Chris Roberts]

I guess knots would be off topic, but I feel like I should learn a few more.  I'm not sure of the reasons, but maybe live bait vs lures.  Braid vs mono, line weight?  Again, I feel like this may be off topic.

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

It is - and its been yakked to death here. Just do a search for the subject and you'll find stuff.

Good call.

[Craig Stockton]

This knot can be doubled. I have done it a number of time with lures for bigger fish. I do a lot of striper fishing as well and carp. The knot when doubled leaves a tag end plus a loop. You just cut the tag end plus the top loop.  This knot so far has never failed me.

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

It does look to be a dandy.

[Craig Stockton]

It takes some practice, but it's a great knot.  I use it on most things, except braid. If you give yourself extra line to work with until you get use to it, it helps.