5 steps
Willis Knot
Heads up: we checked this page against published instructions for this knot, and the steps here don't match. We're rewriting them from those sources. Until then, please don't rely on these steps.
Joins a mono or fluoro leader to lead-core line. The sheath is opened, the leader is seized onto the inner braid, and the sheath is pulled back over the join.
Use it for
Joins a mono or fluoro leader to lead-core line. The sheath is opened, the leader is seized onto the inner braid, and the sheath is pulled back over the join.
This line
The inner core of lead core is a braid. The leader does the wraps. Do not tie only to the plastic sheath.
Avoid when
Hollow-core spectra. That splice is a different job. Use a Tony Pena or an FG for spectra to mono.
All steps visible
Willis Knot
These steps are being corrected. Don't follow them yet.
These steps are being corrected. Don't follow them yet.
Step 1
Peel the sheath open so a long section of the braid core is bare.
Step 2
Lay the fluoro leader along that bare core.
Step 3
Wrap the leader around the core, about eight turns.
Step 4
Tuck the leader tag back under the last three wraps.
Step 5
Pull the sheath back over the barrel. The core is covered and the tag is short.
The drawing follows this tying order. Pause, step, or scrub to stay with the words. The standing line runs to the reel. The tag is the short end you trim. Skin-hook means the point lies flat in the plastic, not out where grass can grab it.
Common mistakes
- Wrapping the sheath instead of the inner braid.
- Leaving the sheath short so the lead shows at the knot.