Clinch Knot Overview

Hi everyone, Warren here from Toit Fishing. Today, we’re delving into an in-depth review of the Clinch Knot, or as it’s sometimes called, the Fisherman’s Knot. This really old knot deserves our attention as we explore its functionality and aesthetics.

Twisting and Wrapping Observations

My first observation is its similarity to the Bimini Twist. Let me explain. The reputation and prestige of the Bimini Twist lie in its counter-wrapping technique. According to the Ashley Book of Knots, written in 1762, a similar derivative called the Salmon Knot—using only two wraps—was used during the days of waxed lines. The modern-day Clinch Knot, with its recommended five wraps, essentially follows the same principle. Both knots have two strands of line being counter-wrapped by another strand in the opposite direction.

When you reach the stage of putting the tag end through the loop and start tightening the Clinch Knot, you will notice it begins to twist. As a result, the standing end unwinds and winds down in the opposite direction, while the single line running to the loop twists around the two wraps you created earlier. This action results in the knot overwrapping itself, which greatly contributes to its strength, showing a technique similar to the Bimini Twist.

Aesthetics and Practical Benefits

The neat look of the Clinch Knot is another aspect I appreciate. It doesn’t have additional line pieces running alongside the knot, making it linear and visually pleasing. The tag end exiting the rear of the knot is particularly beneficial when fishing in freshwater lakes or weedy areas, as it reduces the chance of snagging.

While some people argue that forming the knot with heavy line is difficult—because the wraps don’t easily form over each other—I can show you a couple of ways to tie the knot even with 100lb monofilament. Once the knot is formed, start tightening, then stop and unwind the top part onto the bottom part before cinching it down. Another method is to do just three wraps up and then two wraps down in the same direction before cinching down. Thicker lines need a bit of help to form well.

When tying hooks, it doesn’t matter whether you put the line through the top or bottom of the eyelet. The tag will always form by coming out to the side of the eyelet.

Shortfalls of the Clinch Knot

However, the Clinch Knot has its drawbacks. The first major shortfall is the slippage factor, particularly with modern Spectra or Dyneema braided lines and very small diameter monofilament or fluorocarbon. Although if you’ve taken the time to prepare as mentioned in the previous Clinch Knot video, you’ll know how many wraps to use for different line types.

The second shortfall is the tag end length, especially for thicker lines—monofilament and fluorocarbon. If the tag end is cut off right next to the knot, a bit of pressure on the tag can cause the knot to fail. Leaving a 1/8” or 3mm tag end is vital.

Another significant shortfall is the relationship between the tag end and the triangular loop formed when the knot is finished. This tag end isn’t locked down enough, a common issue with thicker lines and larger hooks or swivels. Monofilament’s stretchy nature exacerbates this problem by opening up the triangular detail, making the situation worse and risking the tag end slipping through.

The Heat Factor

I also want to touch on the heat topic. Heat generated during the cinching process can compromise the knot and the section leading out of the knot. Try tying a Clinch Knot quickly without wetting it, and you’ll feel heat when you touch it. Always wet the knot to minimize this risk.

Conclusion

You might wonder why you even use this knot, thinking it’s not worth it. However, this knot has its strengths if used correctly. It’s easy to teach children or beginners, providing a perfect introduction to knot-tying. If you make sure the knot is neat, test it well, and use it on 30lb line or lighter, you should be good to go. The Clinch Knot is quick to tie and reliable for fly fishing or catching small fish, earning my rating of 6.5 out of 10.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the content. Hopefully, you’ve learned something new and gained a better appreciation for this foundational knot. Be safe, take the kids fishing, and get them tying knots. All the best! – Wozza

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