FG Knot
FG Knot
The strongest braid-to-leader connection. Creates an ultra-slim profile that passes through rod guides with ease. Once mastered, the FG Knot is the undisputed choice for serious saltwater and tournament anglers.
Video by Sportfishing Report on YouTube
About the FG Knot
The FG Knot is widely considered the strongest and slimmest braid-to-fluorocarbon or braid-to-monofilament connection available. Unlike other leader knots that stack on top of the main line, the FG Knot weaves the braid around the leader, creating a connection that's barely thicker than the braid itself.
The result is a knot that passes through rod guides silently and without snagging — critical for long-distance casting and offshore trolling. The learning curve is steep, but once it becomes muscle memory, most serious anglers refuse to tie any other leader knot.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Braid mainline to fluorocarbon leader
- ✓ Braid mainline to monofilament leader
- ✓ Inshore, offshore, and surf fishing
- ✓ Maximum casting distance
- ✓ Long leader connections
Not ideal for
- ✗ Beginners (requires practice to tie correctly)
- ✗ Cold hands or poor lighting conditions
- ✗ Tying quickly on the water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the FG Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Lock the leader
Hold 24 inches of fluorocarbon or monofilament leader taut under your foot or in a line clip. Hold the braid at the junction point.
Step 2: Cross-wrap the braid
With the leader under tension, cross the braid over the leader, then wrap it back under from the other side. Alternate these diagonal cross-wraps 20 times, working toward the leader end.
Step 3: Secure with half hitches
Once 20 cross-wraps are complete, secure with 3-4 alternating half hitches over the leader, moving away from the wraps.
Step 4: Finish with locking hitches
Tie 4-5 half hitches back over the standing braid above the knot body to lock everything in place.
Step 5: Trim and inspect
Wet thoroughly and pull hard on both ends to fully seat the knot. Trim tag ends of both braid and leader close. The knot should be slim, even, and completely locked.
Pro Tips
- Keep the leader under constant tension — release it and the wraps loosen
- Cross-wraps must alternate direction each time
- 20 wraps minimum — 25+ for heavier braid
- Watch the Sportfishing Report video multiple times before attempting
Common Mistakes
- Not keeping the leader under tension throughout
- Wrapping in one direction instead of alternating
- Too few cross-wraps — knot will slip under pressure
- Skipping the final half hitches over the standing braid