6 Simple Steps: How to Tie a Swivel to Fishing Line

Swivel on fishing line

Tying a swivel to your fishing line is an essential skill for any angler. Swivels help to prevent line twist, which can lead to tangles and lost fish. They also provide a smooth bearing surface for the line to pass through, which can help to increase casting distance and accuracy. There are a few different ways to tie a swivel to your fishing line, but the most common and secure method is the double uni knot. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to tie a double uni knot to attach a swivel to your fishing line.

To tie a double uni knot, you will need a swivel, a length of fishing line, and a pair of scissors. Start by threading the fishing line through the eye of the swivel. Then, fold the line back on itself and thread it through the loop that you have created. Pull the line tight to secure the first knot. Next, take the tag end of the line and thread it through the loop that you have created on the other side of the swivel. Pull the line tight to secure the second knot. Finally, trim the excess line and you are ready to go fishing!

The double uni knot is a strong and secure knot that is perfect for attaching a swivel to your fishing line. It is easy to tie and can be used with any type of swivel. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, the double uni knot is a valuable skill to have in your fishing arsenal.

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Selecting the Right Swivel for Your Line

Choosing the appropriate swivel for your fishing line is crucial to ensure seamless lure movement, prevent line twisting, and enhance your overall fishing experience. Here are some key considerations when selecting the right swivel:

Material and Durability:

Swivels are primarily made of stainless steel, brass, or plastic. Stainless steel swivels offer exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for saltwater and harsh environments. Brass swivels are durable and budget-friendly, while plastic swivels are lightweight and suitable for light-duty applications.

Size and Strength:

Select a swivel size that complements the strength of your fishing line. The swivel’s strength should match or exceed the line’s breaking strength to prevent breakage at the swivel connection.

Type of Swivel:

There are various types of swivels available, including barrel swivels, ball bearing swivels, and snap swivels. Barrel swivels are suitable for most applications, while ball bearing swivels offer smooth rotation and minimize line twist. Snap swivels allow for quick lure changes and are ideal for trolling.

Finish and Color:

The finish and color of a swivel can influence its visibility to fish. Black or dark-colored swivels are less conspicuous in clear water conditions, while reflective or brightly colored swivels may be more visible and suitable for murky waters.

Other Considerations:

Consider factors such as the line diameter, the size of the lure, and the fishing conditions when selecting a swivel. For heavy-duty applications, opt for a larger swivel with a higher breaking strength. Conversely, for lightweight lines and small lures, a smaller swivel will suffice.

Gathering Essential Materials

To tie a swivel to a fishing line, you’ll need the following materials:

Swive:

Choose a swivel that is appropriate for the size of your line and the weight of the lures or bait you’ll be using.

Fishing Line:

Use a fishing line that is compatible with the swivel and the type of fishing you’ll be doing.

Scissors

For cutting the fishing line.

Pliers

For crimping the swivel onto the line.

Crimping Sleeves

Optional, but recommended for added security.

Items	Description
Swivel Size Chart	Choose a swivel size based on your line weight and lure weight
Fishing Line Compatibility	Check the line specifications to ensure it’s suitable for the swivel
Scissors	Sharp and specialized for fishing line
Pliers	Heavy-duty and suitable for crimping
Crimping Sleeves	Small metal tubes that secure the swivel to the line

Using a Surgeon’s Knot

The Surgeon’s Knot is a strong and reliable knot for attaching a swivel to a fishing line. It is relatively easy to tie and can be used with a variety of line sizes and types.

To tie a Surgeon’s Knot, follow these steps:

Pass the end of the fishing line through the eye of the swivel.
Double the line back on itself and thread the doubled line through the eye of the swivel again.
Wet the line and pull the knot tight.
Trim the excess line.

Step 3: Wetting the Line and Pulling the Knot Tight

Wetting the line before pulling the knot tight helps to lubricate it and reduce friction. This makes it easier to pull the knot tight and prevents the line from breaking.

To wet the line, simply dip it into a glass of water or run it under a faucet. Then, pull the knot tight by hand or using a pair of pliers.

If you are using a particularly strong line, you may need to use a pair of pliers to pull the knot tight. Be careful not to overtighten the knot, as this can damage the line.

Step	Description
1	Pass the end of the fishing line through the eye of the swivel
2	Double the line back on itself and thread the doubled line through the eye of the swivel again
3	Wet the line and pull the knot tight
4	Trim the excess line

Employing the Palomar Knot

The Palomar knot is a widely used and effective method to attach a swivel to fishing line. It is known for its strength, reliability, and ease of tying, making it a preferred choice among anglers.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to tie the Palomar knot:

Materials:

Item
Fishing line
Swivel

Steps:

Double the fishing line and pass it through the eye of the swivel.

Bring the two doubled ends of the line back through the eye of the swivel, forming a loop.

Pass the two loose ends of the line through the loop, then cinch the knot down.

To create a secure attachment, carry out the following steps with extra care and precision:

Hold the swivel close to the knot and tighten the loop formed by the doubled line around it, ensuring that the swivel sits flush against the knot.
Wet the knot before tightening it further, as this will help to lubricate the line and prevent unnecessary friction.
Slowly pull on both the standing line and the tag end simultaneously, applying gradual and even pressure to tighten the knot securely.
Inspect the knot to ensure it is smooth and free of any lumps or irregularities. If necessary, repeat steps 1-3 to create a new knot.

Trim the excess line, and your Palomar knot is complete.

Implementing the Clinch Knot

The clinch knot is a classic fishing knot that is simple to tie and very secure. It can be used to tie a swivel to a fishing line. Here are the steps on how to tie a clinch knot:

Pass the tag end of the line through the eye of the swivel.

Wrap the tag end around the standing line five or six times.

Pass the tag end back through the loop that was created by the wraps.

Pull the tag end to tighten the knot.

Trim the tag end close to the knot.

Step	Description
1	Pass the tag end of the line through the eye of the swivel.
2	Wrap the tag end around the standing line five or six times.
3	Pass the tag end back through the loop that was created by the wraps.
4	Pull the tag end to tighten the knot.
5	Trim the tag end close to the knot.

Utilizing a Loop Knot

Loop knots offer a secure and versatile connection between swivels and fishing lines. Here are the steps on how to tie a loop knot:

Create a Small Loop: Form a small loop at the end of the fishing line by doubling it over itself, leaving a tail of 4-6 inches.
Thread the Swivel: Pass the end of the fishing line through the eye of the swivel and back through the loop.
Tighten the Loop: Pull on the end of the line to tighten the loop around the eye of the swivel.
Wrap the Tail: Wrap the tail around the standing line above the loop, making 5-7 tight wraps.
Moisturize: Moisten the knot with saliva or water to help it set securely.
Tighten and Trim: Pull on the standing line and the tail simultaneously to tighten the knot. Trim the excess tail close to the knot.

Additional Tips:

Use a Quality Swivel: Choose a swivel designed for the specific type of fishing you’re doing.
Double Over the Line: For increased strength, double over the fishing line before creating the loop.
Make Tight Wraps: Ensure the wraps around the standing line are tight and secure.
Wet the Knot: Moistening the knot helps it settle and prevents it from fraying.
Test the Knot: Before casting, test the knot by pulling on it to ensure it’s strong and secure.

Avoiding Overtightening

Overtightening a swivel can weaken the line and lead to breakage. To avoid overtightening, follow these steps:

Insert the standing line into the eye of the swivel.
Wrap the line around the swivel shaft several times, in a clockwise direction.
Hold the standing line and swivel with one hand, and the tag end with the other hand.
Pull the tag end to tighten the wraps.
Stop pulling when the wraps are snug but not tight.
Trim the tag end to about 1/4 inch.
Add a drop of superglue or nail polish to the knot for added strength (optional).

Sign	Solution
The knot is too tight	Release the tension on the knot and re-tie it.
The knot is too loose	Tighten the knot by pulling on the tag end.
The knot is slipping	Re-tie the knot using a different method.
The knot is breaking	Use a stronger knot or line.

Testing the Swivel Connection

Once the swivel is tied to the fishing line, it’s crucial to test the connection to ensure its strength and integrity. Follow these steps to thoroughly test the swivel:

Pull Test: Hold the line taut and apply gradual pressure by pulling on the swivel. The connection should not slip or break under reasonable force.
Twist Test: Grip the swivel with one hand and twist the line in opposite directions. The swivel should rotate smoothly without any binding or resistance.
Knot Test: Tie a small knot in the line above and below the swivel. Pull on the ends of the line to tighten the knots. Ensure that the swivel does not become loose or dislodge from the line.
Visual Inspection: Examine the connection point between the swivel and the line. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or slippage.
Water Test: Dip the swivel connection into water. The swivel should not allow water to penetrate the junction, which could weaken the connection or cause corrosion.

By conducting these tests, you can verify the strength and reliability of the swivel connection. If any issues arise during testing, adjust the knot, retie the swivel, or consider using a different swivel to ensure a secure and effective connection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While tying a swivel to your fishing line may seem like a simple task, there are a few common mistakes that can compromise the strength and effectiveness of your connection. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure that your swivel remains securely attached and your fishing experience is not hindered.

1. Using the Wrong Swivel Size

Make sure to select a swivel that is appropriately sized for the diameter and breaking strength of your fishing line. An undersized swivel will not provide sufficient strength, while an oversized swivel can create unnecessary bulk and hinder line flow.

2. Tying the Swivel in the Wrong Direction

The swivel should be oriented so that the line enters and exits on the same side. Tying the swivel in the reverse direction can create a weak point where the line and swivel meet.

3. Not Using a Proper Knot

There are several knots suitable for tying a swivel to fishing line, such as the Palomar knot, the Surgeon’s knot, or the Alberto knot. Using an incorrect or poorly tied knot can compromise the connection’s strength.

4. Overtightening the Knot

While it’s important to ensure the knot is tight, overtightening can weaken the line and reduce its breaking strength. Aim for a snug fit without excessive force.

5. Using a Sharp Object to Cut the Tag End

Avoid using a sharp knife or scissors to trim the tag end of the line after tying the knot. This can accidentally nick or cut the line, weakening its structure.

6. Not Wetting the Knot Before Tightening

Moistening the knot with water before tightening helps lubricate the line and prevents it from overheating and weakening.

7. Applying Pressure at the Wrong Angle

When tightening the knot, apply pressure in a straight line, perpendicular to the swivel and line. Pulling at an angle can create a weak point or cause the swivel to spin.

8. Not Double-Checking the Connection

After tying the swivel, tug on the line and swivel to ensure they are securely connected. A loose connection can lead to line breakage and lost tackle.

9. Using a Swivel with Damaged Components

Inspect the swivel before use for any damage or signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bends, or misaligned components. A defective swivel can fail under load, compromising your fishing line and potentially resulting in lost fish.

Maintaining Swivel Functionality

Swivels are indispensable components of fishing lines that facilitate seamless movement for lures and hooks. By preventing line twisting and tangling, swivels contribute significantly to the success of any fishing expedition. To ensure optimal performance and prevent premature wear, it is crucial to maintain swivel functionality meticulously. The following steps provide a comprehensive guide:

Inspection

Thoroughly examine swivels for signs of corrosion, damage, or wear. Rusted or damaged swivels compromise their ability to rotate smoothly, affecting fishing performance.

Cleaning

Periodically remove swivels from the line and clean them with a soft brush or cloth. This removes dirt, saltwater, or bait residue that may accumulate and impede smooth operation.

Lubrication

After cleaning, apply a small amount of lubricant specifically designed for fishing line hardware. Lubrication reduces friction and enhances swivel rotation, prolonging their lifespan.

Line Knots

Ensure that line knots are tied correctly and securely. Weak or poorly tied knots may cause swivels to fail prematurely. Use recommended knot types for your specific fishing application.

Proper Size and Weight

Matching the swivel size and weight to the fishing line and target fish species is crucial. Oversized swivels can impede casting or lure movement, while undersized swivels may break under heavy loads.

Balanced Swivel

When multiple swivels are used in a fishing line, ensure they are carefully balanced. An unbalanced setup can lead to line twisting and tangling issues.

Regular Replacement

Despite proper maintenance, swivels will eventually wear out due to repeated use and exposure to the elements. Replace worn-out swivels to maintain optimal fishing performance.

Storage

When not in use, store swivels in a dry and well-ventilated environment to prevent moisture and corrosion buildup.

How To Tie Swivel To Fishing Line

Swivels are an essential part of any fishing setup. They help to prevent your line from twisting and tangling, which can lead to lost fish and frustration. There are a few different ways to tie a swivel to fishing line, but the most common method is the Palomar knot. Here’s how to do it:

Pass the line through the eye of the swivel, then back through the eye of the hook.
Bring the line around the back of the swivel and pass it through the loop you just created.
Tighten the knot by pulling on the tag end of the line.
Trim the excess line.

Here are some other ways to tie a swivel to fishing line:

The Clinch knot
The Improved Clinch knot
The Surgeon’s knot
The Uni knot

The best way to tie a swivel to fishing line depends on the type of fishing you’re doing and the size of the swivel. Experiment with different knots until you find one that works well for you.