The Snell Knot lets a tippet, or leader, be tied directly to a baited hook. Originally, the snell know was invented for eyeless hooks, and now it is still widely used. This knot aligns the leader, or fishing line, with the hook's shank. It provides a trustworthy straight line pull when one is setting the hook.

 

There are several ways that a snell knot can be tied. The version that will be discussed, is the easiest and most preferred way.

Kevin Hawk, professional bass fisherman, recommends this method of tying the snell knot. Haw is of the Pro Bass Tour's Elite Series. So, coming from a person who makes their entire living off of knots, if this is his preferred way, it should be everyone's. 

 

First, run the tag end of the line through the eye of the hook. From here, create a tiny loop and then bring the tag end back, behind the shank's hook. The desired length wanted is about four (4) inches of the tag, in order to make it easier to work with.

Then, start to wrap the end of the tag around the shank's hook, as well as the line. Work up to the eye from the point. The ideal amount of wraps to make is between five (5) and seven (7). Then, simply feed the tag outwards through the loop. This is done from underneath to the top side.

 

Now, while holding the wraps into place, pull the tag in order to tighten the tag end. Tip: Make certain the wraps are neatly and nicely placed on the shank's hood. Pull both of the ends very, very tight. Finally, clip the tag end!

 

 

 

You're all set. You've made the simplest, best, easy snell knot like the pros. Happy Fishing!