Uni Knot
Uni Knot
Also known as the Hangman's Knot, the Uni is one of the most versatile knots in fishing. Use it for hooks, to join two lines with the Double Uni, or to connect braid to a leader. One knot, endless applications.
Video by Sport Fishing Report on YouTube
About the Uni Knot
The Uni Knot earns its reputation as the most versatile fishing knot by performing reliably in nearly every situation an angler encounters. Tie it to a hook, use two Uni knots to join lines of different diameters, or adapt it for connecting braid to fluorocarbon.
Its sliding collar design lets you snug the knot down to the hook eye with control, making it forgiving to tie — especially in cold or wet conditions where stiff fingers make precise knot tying difficult.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Hooks, lures, swivels
- ✓ Line-to-line (Double Uni)
- ✓ Braid to mono or fluoro
- ✓ Cold weather fishing
- ✓ Teaching knots to beginners
Not ideal for
- ✗ When maximum strength is critical (use Palomar)
- ✗ Very heavy offshore line over 80 lb
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the Uni Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Thread and double back
Run 6 inches of line through the hook eye and fold the tag end back parallel to the standing line, creating a doubled section alongside the hook.
Step 2: Form a loop
Create a loop by crossing the tag end over both strands of the doubled line. Hold this loop open with your fingers.
Step 3: Make 6 wraps through the loop
Wrap the tag end around both lines and through the loop 6 times, working toward the hook eye. Keep wraps snug and even.
Step 4: Pull the tag end to tighten
Pull the tag end firmly to tighten the wraps into a barrel shape. Wet first. Leave it slightly loose for sliding.
Step 5: Slide to the eye and trim
Pull the standing line to slide the knot barrel all the way down to the hook eye. Pull firmly to seat completely. Trim to 1/8 inch.
Pro Tips
- 6 wraps for mono and fluoro, 8 wraps for braid
- For Double Uni: 4 wraps mono side, 8 wraps braid side
- Slide the knot slowly and deliberately to the eye
- Wet thoroughly — especially critical with braid
Common Mistakes
- Too few wraps on braid — use 8
- Not sliding knot fully to hook eye
- Using wrong wrap count on Double Uni — 4 wraps mono, 8 braid