Outdoor Blog

The 8 Best Fishing Knots for Beginners

Published

4 years ago

April 26, 2020

You don’t have to be a scout to rock knots. It can be a bit intimidating though, as a beginner, as there are so many different types of knots out there. However, it’s really worth practicing a few of the basic knots, before you go on your first big camping trip. This would be one of our main fishing tips for beginners.

After all, you’re unlikely to be able to catch 3G to learn them at the lakeside! To set you on your way, no matter the time of year, we’ve put together our top picks of easy knots to learn, that don’t sacrifice on strength, usability or durability.

Check out the best fishing knots for beginners below. At the end, I’ll also go over the 10 best fishing knots for catching bass, specifically.

Arbour Knot

(Photo source: https://troopleader.scouting.org/fishing-knots)

The arbour knot is a great basic knot to start out with. Although it’s not the hardiest or strong, knot we’re going to teach you how to make, it will really come in useful on your fishing trips. One reason why the arbour knot is useful to know, is that it’s versatile. You can use it to tie your fishing line to the spool of any type of fishing reel: whether it be a fly reel, spinning reel or baitcasting reel.

The purpose of the arbour knot, because it isn’t as strong, isn’t to pull in your fish once they have bitten. It won’t be able to hold, probably, if a fish has taken all the line down to the end of your reel spool. However, it is strong enough to hold in the event of you losing a rod and reel overboard and you have to pull it up by the line.

Fly line can be expensive, and you don’t want it to go to waste. What you want to avoid is being spooled. This is when a strong fish takes off with the bait, pulling all of the line off your reel. If you tie an effective arbour knot, with a secure connection of your fly line to the reel, it could save your expensive fly line from being spooled.

Another knot that can be used to tie a line to a reel is the Uni Knot, which we will outline later on, but used in this context you only need to do one or two wraps of the Uni Knot instead of the five or six used to tie on a hook.

How to tie an Arbour Knot:

Start by wrapping your line around the arbor (the central post of a fishing reel to which fishing line is attached) of the spool with the tag end of the line (the end used to tie the knot). Then tie a simple overhand knot around the standing part with the tag end.

Then tie a second overhand knot in the tag end about an inch or two from the first overhand knot.

Lastly, pull the standing part of the line to slide the first overhand knot down to the spool and the second knot to jam against the first. Then trim the tag end of the line, so it’s not flying about.

Clinch Knot

The Clinch knot is one that every fisher or angler should have in their arsenal. It’s one of the most popular fishing knots around, so if you know anyone who even goes fishing even occasionally, they should be able to demonstrate yo you how to tie this simple knot. This knot is easy to tie, to remember, and is still very durable. Unless you need your knot for a specific purpose, you could probably use the clinch knot.

How to tie a Clinch Knot:

Start by threading the tag end of the line through the eye of your fishing hook. It doesn’t matter whether you come from above or below.

Next, you need to wrap the tag end of the line around the taught line, going back into the reel, four or six times, depending on how hardy you want it to be.

And now you make the knot: pass the end of the line through the loop that you created in the first step.

To make what’s called an “improved clinch knot”, feed the line through the loop that was created in the last step. This will make the knot even more strong and durable.

The last step to complete your clinch knot, is to pull it really tight. With a lot of these knots, used for fishing, it helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

Now your knot is complete, all you need to do is cut the excess line off to about an eighth of an inch, to avoid having an annoying spare bit of line flying about.

Once you’ve learned how to tie fishing knots, the water is yours.

Orvis Knot

The Orvis knot is a strong and easy alternative to clinch knot. As we’ve seen, even the clinch knot is super easy to tie, so the orris knot is a perfect starting point for beginners, especially for those who find tying knots tricky! The Orvis knot, just like the Clinch knot, is perfectly suited for fly fishing. The Orvis Knot is a very strong and easy to tie knot that works in diameters up to 30 lb.

How to tie an Orvis Knot:

(source: fishing.org)

Start by threading the tag end of the line through the eye of your fishing hook from below.

Form a loop by bringing the tag end over the standing part of the tippet on the far side. The tippet is a specific gauge monofilament line that is attached to the end of the leader, to which you tie the fly. The tippet is usually the smallest gauge line on your rig and is virtually invisible to the fish. Give yourself plenty of tippet.

Next: form a figure eight by crossing the standing line and threading the end back through the first loop formed.

Fold the tag end over and take 2 turns around the loop just formed (the second loop). Make sure these turns start at the far side of this second loop.

With a lot of these knots, used for fishing, it helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

Tighten the second loop against the standing part by pulling on the fly and the tag end. Then let go of the tag end and pull on the fly and the standing part until the knot snugs neatly against the eye.

Now your knot is complete, all you need to do is cut the excess line off to about an eighth of an inch, to avoid having an annoying spare bit of line flying about.

Double Uni Knot

The double uni knot is used by anglers in both salt and freshwater for joining lines of similar or different strengths. It works well and is durable, and some find it easier to tie than the Blood Knot, so it’s a great knot for beginners to start off with.

What makes this a great knot for fly fishing, is that The Uni Knot forms a loop that slips closed when fish strikes. If you’re attempting to tie braided line to monofilament, make 8 turns with the slippery braided line and 5 or more turns with the mono.

(source: n1outdoors.com/uni-knot)

How to tie a Double Uni Knot:

Overlap the ends of lines to be joined. Take the end of the line from the left and double back and make 3 to 4 wraps around both lines and through the loop that you originally made. Pull the tag end to tighten.

Repeat with the end of the line on the left making the same number of wraps with most lines. However, if you’re using a braided line, instead you should double the number of wraps.

You have now tied two Uni knots. To form the double uni knot, pull the standing lines in opposite directions, sliding the two knots together.

With a lot of these knots, used for fishing, it helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

Wet the knot and pull on the fly, tag end, and standing part of the line at the same time.

Then give the tag end of the line one more pull, and cut the excess line off to about an eighth of an inch

Mural is on wall in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura.

Fishing knots come in all shapes and sizes and most fishermen have their go-to-knot.

Palomar Knot

The Palomar knot is a great knot for beginners to learn, especially if you if you want the best knot to use with braided fishing line. A braided fishing line might be a good option for you to start with, as it’s slightly cheaper than some of the other types of line, and is sometimes less fiddly.

It’s also easier to see, and practice tying knots with. The Palomar can look pretty tricky, but once it’s mastered, it’s close to being a perfect knot. It doesn’t take much time to perfect, either: so get practicing, and you’ll be able to perfect it in no time.

(source: 101knots.com)

How to tie a Palomar Knot:

Double about six inches of the line up, so they’re lying side by side, and pass the doubled line through the eye of the hook.

Next, create a simple overhand knot with the doubled line. Make sure the hook is hanging at the bottom of the line, and ensure that you’re not twisting the lines.

Slide the doubled line under the hook and back up, above the eye of the hook.

To complete your Palomar knot, tighten by pulling on both the standing line as well as the tag end. It helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

Then give the tag end of the line one more pull, and cut the excess line off to about an eighth of an inch.

Davy Knot

The Davy Knot is named after Davy Wotton, a British Fly Fishing pro. There are many benefits to knowing how to tie a davy knot: they are fast to tie, once you’ve practiced them a few times, and they’re really strong. These are both necessary attributes of an effective fly fishing knot.

Once learned, the Davy Knot can be tied very quickly which gets you back to fishing in no time at all, if you happen to break a line. It is also a little knot, which means it’s a good knot for small flies

(source: fishing.org)

How to tie a Davy Knot:

Firstly, thread 3 or 4 inches of the line (the leader or tippet) through the eye of the fly hook.

Then loosely form an overhand knot with the end of the line, ahead of the hook.

Bring the tag end of the line back over and through the overhand knot and the hook itself.

Tighten the knot by pulling on the tag end to draw up the knot, then on the main line to set the knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth, to lubricate it, before pulling it tight.

Learning the art of tying fishing knots is like learning the art of precision.

Surgeon’s Knot

The Surgeon’s Knot is a very useful knot to know how to tie and is easy enough to learn as a beginner. This knot is one of the best and easiest to tie knots for joining lines of equal or unequal diameters. In low light conditions or with cold hands, on winter fishing trips, or when time is of the essence, join your lines with the Surgeon’s knot instead of the more complicated Double Uni Knot. Surgeon’s Knot can also be used to join lines of different materials. It is just two simple overhand knots with the entire leader pulled through the knot each time. When properly tied, the Surgeon’s Knot approaches 100-percent line strength, so it’s worth practicing and practicing until you’ve perfected it.

How to tie a Surgeon’s Knot:

Firstly, overlap the tag ends of the two strands you are joining by 4 to 6 inches. The section not attached to the rest of your leader and line (in most cases a new tippet) should be held in your left hand.

Next, form a loop in the overlapped strand and pinch the junction of the loop with the thumb and forefinger of your right hand.

With your left hand, wrap the standing part of the tippet (or smaller piece) and the tag end of the bigger piece through the loop 2 times.

With knots used for fishing, it helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

Tighten this knot by holding both short and long ends on each side and pulling quickly and tightly. To tighten this knot, you must pull all 4 ends tight. Make sure all strands are snug, and the knots are tight and are not going anywhere, then cut the excess line off to about an eighth of an inch, or trim to as close to the knot as possible without risking it unraveling. We’d recommend taking a camping multi-tool with you: check out our top recommendations here.

To tie the Triple Surgeon’s Knot, all you need to do is tie a total of three wraps of the loop through the overhand knot. Of for a double surgeon, obviously, you just do two wraps. There is some added security and strength with the Triple Surgeon’s knot, but the knot does get a bit large and bulky, so make sure to think about your use for the knot before deciding which one to tie.

Pitzen Knot

The Pitzen Knot may be a little more complicated, but once you’ve got used to, and practiced many times, tying the other knots we’ve overviewed, this is a great knot to graduate on to. The reason for this is that the Pitzen knot can offer you incredible strength.

Consider choosing it if you’re targeting a particularly large or boisterous catch, for extra strength and durability. The Pitzen knot, also known as the Eugene Bend or 16-20 Knot, is known to hold up to 95% of the line’s breaking strength. So although it might be a bit more fiddly, it’s well worth the effort.

(source: fishing.org)

How to tie a Pitzen Knot:

Firstly, thread a line through the eye of the hook.

Then loop the tag line back under the taught standing line.

Using your index finger as a stop, hook the line all-around your finger.

Then wrap the line back around the paralleled lines four times.

Pass the tag end back through the small loop created by your finger.

And lastly, to complete your Pitzen Knot, tighten the knot by sliding the knot down to the eye of the hook. Do this with your fingers rather than by pulling the standing line. With knots used for fishing, it helps if the line is a little moist, to get a really tight knot. You can wet it up a little bit in your mouth before pulling it tight.

The 10 Best Bass Fishing Knots

When it comes to knot tying for catching bass, there are a few variables that can have an impact on the knot you can use. There are three main types of fishing line which are popular with anglers, and they are braided line, monofilament line, and fluorocarbon line. Because each of these leader materials has different properties, you can’t use all knots with all types of line. When selecting one of the best fishing knots to catch your next record-breaking bass, make sure the one you choose is appropriate for your line materials.

Many bass anglers choose a fluorocarbon leader as it’s virtually invisible to the fish, an issue if you’re aiming for a finesse presentation. However, this isn’t applicable if you’re fishing in murky waters, so a stronger line might be preferred for such large fish. The best fishing knots are only as strong as the rest of your tackle, so choosing the correct, line, bait, hook, and of course, knot, is important to the success of your trip! Now you’ve learned a few tips to help you make every fishing knot more reliable, let’s jump into the 10 Best Bass Fishing Knots.

Palomar Knot (see video explanation)
Unit Knot (see video explanation)
Surgeon’s Knot (see video explanation)
Albright Knot (see video explanation)
Trilene Knot (see video explanation)
Snell Knot (see video explanation)
Non-Slip Loop Knot (see video explanation)
Arbor Knot (see video explanation)
San Diego Jam Knot (see video explanation)
Perfection Loop (see video explanation)

Final Verdict:

So there we have it: a starting guide for knot tying, of fishing knots for beginners. Whether you’re going saltwater or freshwater fishing, these knots will never do you wrong. And what’s even better is that despite them being so simple to learn, you don’t have to compromise on knot strength. Get practicing, and then get on out there!

Bonus tip: Check out this useful video on how to tie two of the most important fishing knots in the sport!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter