Australian Braid Knot
Australian Braid Knot
A strong braid-to-braid or braid-to-mono connection popular with surf and beach anglers. The interlocking spiral design grips braided line effectively where standard line-to-line knots fail.
Video by Sportfishing Report on YouTube
About the Australian Braid Knot
The Australian Braid Knot was developed by surf fishing anglers who needed a reliable braid-to-braid or braid-to-mono connection that wouldn't slip under the extreme forces of large surf fish. Standard line-to-line knots like the Blood Knot perform poorly on braided line — the Australian Braid solves this with an interlocking spiral pattern.
The knot works by threading both lines through each other's tag end loops, then spiraling them around each other. The resulting connection grips braided line far better than the blood knot or improved clinch alternatives.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Braid to braid connections
- ✓ Braid to monofilament
- ✓ Surf and beach fishing
- ✓ Any situation where double-uni or blood knot slips on braid
Not ideal for
- ✗ Quick changes on the water (takes some practice)
- ✗ Lines of very different diameters (use Albright or Slim Beauty)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the Australian Braid Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Form two loops
Form a loop in the end of each line by doubling back about 4 inches. Hold both loops side by side.
Step 2: Interlock the loops
Pass one loop through the other loop from front to back. Hold the interlocked loops between thumb and forefinger.
Step 3: Thread both tag ends through
Pass both tag ends through the interlocked loop area simultaneously. Pull partially through.
Step 4: Wrap both around 6 times
Wrap both tag ends around both standing lines 6 times. Keep wraps moving in the same direction and evenly spaced.
Step 5: Tighten and lock
Wet the knot generously. Pull both standing lines simultaneously to draw the spiral wraps together. Pull firmly to fully seat and lock. Trim both tag ends close.
Pro Tips
- Keep the initial loops the same size
- Wet heavily before seating — braid needs lubrication to slide correctly
- Six wraps is minimum — use 8 for lighter braid
- The interlocking at step 2 is the key — both ends must be properly nested
Common Mistakes
- Not interlocking the loops properly — they must nest through each other
- Too few wraps — knot will slip under load
- Pulling tag ends instead of standing lines to tighten
- Uneven wraps that bunch on one side