Impala is proud to share the first Tied and Traced in our very own How To Series: This step-by-step guide, tried and tested by the Impala Angling Club, to master the art of tying a swivel to a line.
This guide is designed to enhance your angling skills with tried-and-true methods from the experienced members of the Impala Angling Club. Today, we're focusing on the Palomar Knot – an essential skill for fishermen aiming to securely connect a swivel to a fishing line. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to mastering this knot:
Materials Needed:
- Fishing Line
- Swivel
- Scissors
Step 1: Line Through the Swivel
Begin by threading the fishing line through the eye of the swivel. Ensure you have enough line to work with – a few inches should suffice.
Step 2: Double Back
Double back and pass the line through the swivel's eye once more. This creates a loop alongside the swivel, which will be crucial for the next steps.
Step 3: Tie an Overhand Knot
With the loop you've created, tie a simple overhand knot around the doubled line. Don't tighten it yet; keep the loop open for the next step.
Step 4: Swivel Through the Loop
Now, take the swivel and pass it through the loop you've left open in the overhand knot. This step is key to forming the Palomar Knot's unique structure.
Step 5: Moisten the Knot
Before tightening, wet the knot with a bit of moisture. This reduces friction, allowing the knot to tighten smoothly and evenly, and helps to strengthen the final knot.
Step 6: Pull to Tighten
Gently pull on both the main line and the tag end (the short end of the line) simultaneously to snug the knot around the swivel. Make sure it's tightened evenly without any overlapping lines.
Step 7: Trim the Excess
Finally, use scissors to clip away the longer pieces of the tag end, leaving just a short length near the knot. This ensures your setup is neat and minimizes the risk of tangling.
Congratulations! You've just tied the Palomar Knot, celebrated for its strength and simplicity. This knot is an excellent choice for connecting swivels to lines, ensuring a sturdy link for your angling adventures.
Stay tuned for more articles in the "Tied and Traced" series, where we'll continue to share invaluable fishing techniques and tips from the seasoned anglers of the Impala Angling Club. Tight lines and happy fishing!
Impala Angling Club has been at the forefront of angling since 1965 The club and its members are family oriented and have the passion to grow and develop communities youth by affording them opportunities to grow the sport. Impala angling club consist of various previous and current provincial and national anglers within the club. The club is the gateway to representing a province or a country. For more information about Impala Angling Club and services, visit our website at www.impalaclub.co.za