Shock Leader Knot Essentials:
The Shock Leader Knot is used to join a thinner casting line to a much thicker leader line.
This Knot makes a neat tapered knot that will cast smoothly and will be unlikely to snag on rod guides if tied properly.
The use of a shock leader knot is essential to minimize break-offs while casting. Break- offs usually result in severe backlash on casting style reels. Break-offs are also dangerous to bystanders.
A rule of thumb is to use at least 0.10mm of Nylon for every 1 oz. of lead being cast. So if you are using a 6oz lead you should use a diameter of 0.60mm or more. It is also advisable to use a high quality shock leader like Ultima Powerflex to ensure safety.
When to use the Shock Leader Knot
- Use a shockleader knot for joining lines of unequal diameters.
- Primarily for connecting shock leaders to mainlines.
- It is also used for connecting Tapered Leaders
- Use with nylon monofilament and fluorocarbon
How to tie a Shock Leader knot Step by Step
Step 1:
To Start your Shock Leader Knot Align main line and leader.

Step 2:
Pass the thicker leader around the main line between one and three times.

Step 3:
Lubricate and draw slowly to close the knot. Do not tighten too much at this stage.

Step 4:
Take the tag end of the running line and wind it five time around the shock leader and then out through its own loop.

Step 5:
Lubricate and slowly draw down this part of the knot. Do not tighten too much at this stage.

Step 6:
Lubricate and draw the knot together by pulling on both the Shock leader and the mainline down slowly to bring both parts together as a small neat tapered knot.
