How to Tie the Grinner Knot
The Grinner knot is a go-to for match and specialist anglers attaching hooks and swivels to mainline, hooklength, or braid. It's known for being strong and reliable, particularly with nylon monofilament and fluorocarbon. The knot leaves a little whipping above the eye, which stops the line from strangling and keeps strength intact. You must dampen the knot thoroughly before pulling tight. There's mixed word on braid usage: some say it works, but others say skip braid and stick to mono or fluoro for the best results.
What you need
- Hooklength or mainline
- Hook or swivel
Steps
- Pass your hooklength through the eye of the hook or swivel twice. Pull 4 inches through and form a loop with the tag end.
- Thread the tag end over the standing line and through the loop four to six times. Thicker lines call for fewer turns. Sources disagree on the count; some say four turns while others suggest five to six, so adjust based on your line thickness.
- Moisten the knot thoroughly with saliva. This helps the knot slide down and lock against the eye without heating up the line.
- Pull the knot tight and trim the tag end as close as possible to keep things neat.
Why it works
Why it works
The design includes a small whip above the swivel or hook eye. This feature prevents strangling and helps retain line strength. The knot is widely used by anglers worldwide. Don't get confused by other knots; the Grinner is distinct from the Uni-knot, despite claims online that they are the same.
Related on Fisherman Bible: How to Tie the Palomar Knot, How to Tie the FG Knot to Connect Braid and Leader, Tying the Improved Clinch Knot, How to Execute the Strip-Sweep Hook Set for Topwater Bass.
If it goes wrong
Braid usage
Check your line type. The research is split here. One reference allows braid, but two sources explicitly say the knot isn't recommended for braided lines. For the surest result, use nylon or fluorocarbon.
Knot slipping
Make sure you dampen the knot thoroughly before tightening. The knot relies on moisture to lock effectively against the eye.
