How to Tie a Shock Leader Knot: The Best Way

Shock Leader Knot Essentials:

The Shock Leader Knot also known as the Shore 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 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 when fishing

Joining lines of unequal diameters.
Connecting leaders to mainlines.
Use with nylon monofilament and fluorocarbon

A Step by Step Guide to tie a Shock Leader Knot

Step 1:

FAlign 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.