New Knot: The Big O

[roadwarrior]

I like playing with different knots. Structurally, many or even most fishing knots have

many similarities. Someone else can tell me if this one is REALLY new, but I think it

is something you will find interesting.

The Big O Knot is designed for braided or heavy fluorocarbon line. A primary goal is to

provide 100% security when Big O sets the hook! I promise you this, if tied properly the

knot will not break.

This is a variation of the Pitzen Knot: http://www.orlandooutfitters.com/knots/knot.asp?id=12

The Big O Knot requires putting the tag end back through the eye of the hook one more

time, just as you would do with a Palomar Knot. Bring the loop you created up next to

the main line. Then wrap the tag end four times around the outside of the main line and

the two lines of the loop. Start the wrapping from the bottom (nearest the hook) and

work up. Finish the knot by threading the tag through the newly created top loop, moisten

and tighten.

[BobP]

This one is ALMOST the same as a San Diego Jam knot, which is a very good fluorocarbon terminal knot. On the SDJ, you put the tag end through the loop near the hook after the wraps and then back through the loop under your thumb. Initially tighten the knot while it's still up on the standing line, then wet the line and pull it down to the hook. One good thing about the SDJ is that it neatly forms the wraps on the standing line and you can check for any abnormalities before you tighten it down. Whichever knot you choose that includes multiple wraps around the standing line to protect and support the line near the hook is good for braid and fluorocarbon lines. That includes the old standard fisherman's knot and others.

[roadwarrior]

When you tighten the knot the loops must seat evenly and not jump over one another.

THIS IS THE KEY TO THIS KNOT. I like to finesse it into itself like a Chinese finger trap

as I tighten to ensure it seats right.

[PABASS]

Thanks for sharing, do we know the breaking strength, officially?

I love knot wars, tried many knots my self, it seems to me most of the winning knots had the line twice through the eye of the hook, much like the palomar knot does. This knot doesn't have that extra material so I am not sure what its breaking strength might be, however its easy enough to tie. Palomar is what I tie most simply because its easy, quick and works with all line types, I use improved clinch for mono mostly with cranks and sometimes the berkley braid for fun. I also love the rapala knot for my jerkbaits.

[roadwarrior]

A friend of mine tested Sufix 832 20/6. The line broke at 26 lbs (best), 23 lbs (worst).

However, the line broke well above the knot, the Big O did not break.

[jbsoonerfan]

That is a great little knot and easy to tie.

[roadwarrior]

You don't need to leave much of a tag and there are no stress points.

I will be interested in comments after anyone fishes the knot.

[SirSnookalot]

I'm sure that knot works just fine, as do most fisherman's knots tied correctly. My concern with any knot is pull thru, not breaking strength of the knot or the line. If your drag is set correctly a larger fish is pulling out line and IMO that takes much of the stress of line and knot. What I like to do, especially with braid, is singe the tag end and put a little bead on it, does help to prevent the line from pulling thru the knot.

[roadwarrior]

Great suggestion!

[BassCats]

Glenn should make a video of this knot

[BassinB]

I fish the san diego jam knot exclusively with flouro and mono, and i use the palomar for braid. The knot in the link is neArly identical to the SDJ, i have never had one of those fail. Sometimes i will double the line up if i am using it for flipping/pitching.

[gripnrip]

I need to start practicing some new knots.  I plan on using braid a bunch this year.  This looks like a good one.