Use a figure eight to form a loop on the end of your line or leader.
If you spend any amount of time fishing, the need for tying knots quickly becomes apparent. From attaching your line to the spool of a reel to tying hooks to line and other rigs, knots are important parts of fishing. Forming connector loops on the end of main lines and leaders is one example of the need for knot tying. One easy-to-tie knot for forming line end loops is the figure eight. This knot is easy to tie and especially strong and durable when a doubled line is used to form the knot.
Instructions
1. Double the line back alongside itself. This creates a doubled line that will prove to be more durable than a single-tied line and will also form the loop for the end of your line.
2. Hold the doubled line in one hand and the main loop at the end with the other. Bring the loop back along side the doubled line to form a loop that will be the top of the figure 8. Turn the loop toward the doubled line and cross underneath.
3. Hold the doubled lines in place where they cross and bring the loop up and over the doubled line. Pull the loop forward and underneath the top of the figure eight loop you formed earlier. The bottom loop of the figure eight is now formed.
4. Pull the main loop up and through the top loop of the figure eight. Moisten the knot and slowly pull it down tight. Adjust the knot as you go so that the main loop will be formed in the size you need.
5. Trim excess line from the free end of the line. Cut the free end with snips no closer than 1/8 inch. This will allow some room for adjustment by the knot as you fish.
