How Much Tag Do You Leave?

[Snakehead Whisperer]

I have no idea if a short tag can cause line failure. I leave a tag that I'd estimate at 1/4-3/8". It doesn't seem possible that a fractional inch of a filament can make a difference when you consider swinging trebles, split rings, rattles and the main line all visible/audible.

The trebles and split rings add extra flashiness Proven fish attractors.

[Deadeye-1]

I used to leave about 1/4" when tying an improved cinch knot. Then I had some fish lost and I noticed that the tag was slipping a little. Now on that knot I leave 3/8-1/2.

 

On a palamor knot, which I've started using again almost for everything, I still leave about 3/8". Palamor is the simplest and easist knot to tie and one of the strongest knots known to man.

[.ghoti.]

If your knot is slipping, you either used the wrong knot for the line, or you tied a poor knot. Don't take offense at this; we all tie a funky knot now and then.

Since I fish most in and around vegetation, I trim the tag end very close; no more than 1/32" of tag left.