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Glossary
knot

Improved Clinch Knot

The standard knot for tying line to a hook eye. Five to seven wraps of the tag around the standing line, back through the small loop, then back through the big loop. The 'improved' step keeps it from slipping on small hooks.

Also calledimproved clinch · clinch knot · clinch · fisherman's knot

The improved clinch is the most-tied fishing knot on the planet. Fly, spin, bait — if line meets a hook eye, this knot probably joins them.

The "improved" part is one extra step. The standard clinch passes the tag through a small loop near the eye and tightens. That version slips on light tippet or small hooks. The improved version adds a second pass — back through the big loop you just made — that locks the wraps and gives you confidence on 6x and 7x tippet.

Always wet the knot before tightening; friction generates enough heat to weaken light line by 20%+ if you cinch dry. Pull slowly. Trim the tag close so it doesn't drag in the current or catch your guides.

Get this knot down with your eyes closed. You'll tie it more than any other.