FG Knot
FG Knot
The strongest and slimmest braid-to-leader connection available. The FG Knot passes cleanly through guides and is the top choice for tournament anglers, surf casters, and offshore fishing. Worth every minute it takes to learn.
Video by Sport Fishing Report on YouTube
About the FG Knot
The FG Knot has become the gold standard for connecting braided main line to a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader. Its cross-woven design grips the leader rather than knotting around it, creating a connection that approaches 100% of the braid's breaking strength while remaining slimmer than any other braid-to-leader knot.
The learning curve is steep — plan on 20 to 30 practice sessions before tying it confidently on the water. But once mastered, most serious saltwater and bass anglers never go back to any other leader knot. The FG Knot is that good.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Braid to fluorocarbon leader
- ✓ Braid to monofilament leader
- ✓ Surf casting
- ✓ Offshore and inshore saltwater
- ✓ Tournament bass fishing
Not ideal for
- ✗ Lines under 8 lb braid — too difficult
- ✗ When speed is essential — use Alberto instead
- ✗ Very windy conditions for beginners
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the FG Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Tension the leader
Hold the fluorocarbon leader under firm constant tension — teeth, toe, or a cleat. This is critical. The leader must stay taut throughout the entire process.
Step 2: Cross-wrap the braid
Cross the braid over the leader at about 45 degrees, then wrap back the other way — creating an X pattern. Repeat this alternating cross-wrap 20 times.
Step 3: Lock with 5 half hitches
After 20 cross-wraps, tie 5 tight half hitches around the leader with the braid to lock the wraps in place.
Step 4: Finish with alternating half hitches
Add 3 more half hitches alternating sides, then one final locking half hitch cinched down hard.
Step 5: Trim and test
Trim the braid tag end as close as possible — under 1mm. Pull hard on both braid and leader to test. Wraps should compress firmly without slipping.
Pro Tips
- Hold leader under tension with your teeth or cleat
- Keep braid wraps at a consistent 45 degree angle
- 20 cross-wraps minimum, then 5 half hitches
- Trim braid tag to under 1mm for a clean finish
Common Mistakes
- Not keeping leader under constant tension
- Inconsistent cross-wrap angle
- Too few wraps — minimum 20
- Not finishing with enough half hitches