Improved Clinch Knot
Also called: improved cinch knot
The most common knot for tying fishing line to a hook, lure, or swivel, and a good first fishing knot to learn.
- Type
- Fishing Knots
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Good for
- Fishing
What it is for
- Tying monofilament or fluorocarbon line to a hook, lure, or swivel
- A general-purpose knot for most fishing
How to tie it
- Thread the line through the hook or lure eye, leaving several inches of tail.
- Wrap the tail around the standing line five to seven times, using more wraps for light line and fewer for heavy line.
- Thread the tail back through the small loop right above the eye.
- Then thread the tail through the large loop you just made. This last step is what makes it improved.
- Moisten the knot and pull it down slowly, then trim the tail.
There are no diagrams on this page yet. Tie it along with the steps using a short piece of cord, and compare your result with a photograph or an instructor before you rely on it.
Tips
- Moisten the line before tightening, since friction can weaken it.
- Test the knot with a firm pull before you fish.
When not to trust it
- It is not ideal for braided line, which tends to slip.
- It can fail if you use too many or too few wraps for the line.
Often confused with
- Palomar knot: stronger and the usual choice for braid.
- Uni knot: works for hooks and can join two lines.
Field notes
For a full discussion of fishing knots, see the guide to essential fishing knots. The improved clinch is the knot most anglers learn first.
Related guides
This page explains how to tie an everyday knot. It is not training for climbing, rappelling, tree stand fall protection, or rescue. If a failure could injure someone, learn from a qualified instructor and use equipment rated for the job.