Tying a braided fishing line to a swivel may seem challenging at first, but it’s an essential skill for any angler. Braided lines are known for their strength and durability, but their slippery texture can make securing a reliable knot tricky. By mastering the proper technique, you can ensure a strong and secure connection, reducing the chances of your line slipping or breaking while fishing.

This guide on how to tie braided fishing line to swivel will walk you through the process step by step, making it easy to tie your braided line to a swivel with confidence.

Why Use a Swivel?

Before we dive into the steps of tying a braided fishing line to a swivel, let’s first understand why using a swivel is important. A swivel is a small device with two rings that rotate around each other, allowing your line and lure to twist without tangling. This is especially useful when using lures that spin or have multiple hooks.

Moreover, swivels also act as shock absorbers, reducing the stress on your line when fighting against strong or large fish. They can also help prevent your line from breaking due to sudden movements or jerks.

Needed Materials

To tie a braided fishing line to a swivel, you will need the following materials:

Braided Fishing Line:

Choose a high-quality braided fishing line that is suitable for your intended target fish species and the type of water you will be fishing in. Braided lines come in various thicknesses, so make sure to select one that is appropriate for the strength of your rod and reel.

Swivel:

Select a swivel size that matches the weight of your lure or bait. The larger the number on the swivel, the smaller it will be in size. For example, a size 10 swivel is smaller than a size 1 swivel.

Scissors:

You will need scissors to cut your line and trim any excess once you have tied the knot.

8 Step-by-step Guides on How to Tie Braided Fishing Line to Swivel

Step 1: Double Loop Knot 

Begin by creating a double loop in the braided fishing line. Take the end of your braided line and fold it over itself to form a small loop, then make a second loop right next to the first one by folding the line again. Hold the loops firmly in place, ensuring they remain even in size.

This double loop will provide a strong foundation for tying the knot to your swivel and helps compensate for the slippery nature of braided lines. Keep the loops closed but not too tight, as you will need to thread them through the swivel in the next step.

Step 2: Thread the Swivel 

Take the two loops you created in the braided fishing line and carefully thread them through the eye of the swivel. Ensure that both loops pass cleanly through the swivel’s eye without twisting or overlapping. This step is crucial to ensure the knot will hold securely once tightened.

Hold the swivel in place with one hand while maintaining tension on the loops with the other hand to keep them aligned.

Step 3: Cross the Loops 

After threading the loops through the swivel, cross them over each other to form an X-shape. This step will create a simple loop knot that is strong and easy to tie. Make sure that the loops are still even in size and not twisted before proceeding.

You can also create a Surgeon’s Loop knot by crossing the loops multiple times, which will result in an even stronger connection.

Step 4: Wrap and Tuck 

Take the end of your braided line that is closest to the swivel’s eye and wrap it around both loops, starting from the bottom. Make sure to keep the wraps as tight as possible, but be careful not to overlap or twist them.

After wrapping the line around several times, tuck it through the gap between the two loops at the top. This step might require some practice, so take your time and ensure that you are threading through both loops without missing any strands of lines.

Step 5: Wet the Line 

Before tightening the knot, wet the braided fishing line with a small amount of water or saliva. This step is essential as it reduces friction and helps the line slide smoothly into place when tightening the knot.

Wetting the line not only ensures a snug and secure knot but also minimizes the chances of damaging or weakening the braided line due to heat generated by friction. Once the line is damp, you can proceed to carefully tighten the knot.

Step 6: Tighten the Knot 

To tighten the knot, pull on the end of the braided line while holding onto the swivel with your other hand. Use steady and firm pressure to bring the knot together slowly. Ensure that you continue to hold both ends of the swivel in place so it doesn’t twist or move out of alignment.

If you are using a Surgeon’s Loop knot, make sure to pull all four strands evenly to ensure a tight and secure connection. Once tightened, wet the line again before proceeding to trim any excess material.

Step 7: Trim Excess Line 

After tightening and wetting the knot, use scissors to cut the excess braided line close to the knot. Leave a small amount of line, around 1/8 inch, to avoid any accidental slippage or weakening of the knot.

Ensure that you cut the extra material as close to the knot as possible without damaging it or leaving any sharp edges. This step will not only improve your fishing setup’s overall appearance but also reduce snagging and tangling while casting or retrieving your lure.

Step 8: Test Your Knot 

Finally, give your new knot a few gentle pulls to test its strength and ensure that it is holding securely. Make sure to do this before heading out onto the water to prevent any unexpected breakages while fishing.

Following these 8 simple steps on how to tie braided fishing line to swivel will result in a strong and reliable connection between your braided fishing line and swivel. Practice tying this knot several times to become familiar with the technique, which can come in handy when re-tying or changing out lures on the water.

Additional Tips

• It is always a good idea to wet your line before tightening the knot, as this reduces friction and prevents damage to the braided line.
• When choosing a swivel, make sure it is strong enough for your target fish species and the type of water you will be fishing in.
• Practice tying different types of knots with braided lines, such as the Palomar Knot or Albright Knot, to find which works best for your fishing setup.
• Always check the strength of your knot before heading out onto the water. A weak or improperly tied knot can result in lost fish and frustration.
• Consider using a leader between your braided line and swivel, especially when fishing in waters with sharp rocks or structures that can fray or damage the line. This will also provide some stretch and shock absorption, making it easier to reel in larger fish.
• Regularly inspect and retie your knots, especially after catching a few fish or when changing lures. This will ensure a strong connection and prevent unexpected breakages while fishing.
• Be patient and take your time when tying knots, as rushing can result in mistakes and weaken the knot’s overall strength. Remember, a secure knot is crucial for successful fishing trips!  So keep practicing and experimenting until you find the perfect knot for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the Purpose of Using a Swivel When Fishing With Braided Line?

A: Swivels help to reduce line twist and prevent tangling, making it easier to cast and retrieve your lure. They also provide additional durability and strength to the connection between your braided line and the leader or lure.

Q2: Can You Use Any Type of Swivel When Fishing With Braided Line?

A: Yes, you can use any type of swivel when fishing with braided line. However, it is essential to select a swivel size that matches the weight of your lure or bait for optimal performance.

Q3: Is It Necessary to Wet the Line Before Tightening the Knot?

A: Wetting the line before tightening the knot is highly recommended as it reduces friction, helps to tighten the knot more smoothly, and minimizes damage to the braided line due to heat generated by friction.

Conclusion

Tying a strong and secure knot with braided fishing line is an essential skill for any angler to master. By following these step-by-step instructions on how to tie braided fishing line to swivel, you can confidently connect your braided line to a swivel, ensuring durability and reliability during your fishing trips. Practice is key to achieving consistency and precision, so take the time to familiarize yourself with the technique.

With a properly tied knot, you’ll reduce the chances of line breakage, improve your overall fishing setup, and enhance your experience on the water.