Snell Knot
Snell Knot
Ties line directly to the hook shank for perfectly aligned hook sets. The snell creates in-line pull from shank to point — giving you better hookup ratios with circle hooks and bait rigs.
Video by Sportfishing Report on YouTube
About the Snell Knot
The Snell Knot attaches line directly to the hook shank rather than through the eye, creating a connection where the pull is perfectly aligned with the hook point. This in-line pull gives circle hooks and bait hooks dramatically better hookup ratios — the hook rotates correctly on the strike instead of twisting.
It's the standard knot for salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon bait rigs, and is commonly paired with the Egg Loop Knot for salmon eggs and shrimp. Any time you're fishing bait on a circle hook, the Snell Knot will outperform any eye-tied connection.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Circle hooks for salmon and steelhead
- ✓ Bait rigs where in-line pull matters
- ✓ Mono and fluorocarbon leaders
- ✓ Any hook where you want the line to pull from the shank
Not ideal for
- ✗ Lures and hard baits
- ✗ Braided line (slips on shank)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the Snell Knot. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Thread through the eye
Pass 8 inches of tag end through the hook eye from the shank side, so the tag end runs parallel to the shank pointing toward the hook point.
Step 2: Form a loop
Bring the tag end back behind the hook shank, creating a large loop between the tag end, standing line, and shank.
Step 3: Wrap 6-8 times
Hold the loop open and wrap the tag end around the hook shank and standing line 6-8 times, working from the bend toward the eye.
Step 4: Pull through the eye
Thread the tag end back through the hook eye from the point side. Pull the tag end through completely.
Step 5: Wet and seat
Wet the knot. Hold the hook and pull the standing line firmly to slide and compress the wraps tight against the back of the eye. Trim the tag end.
Pro Tips
- Wraps should be tight and perfectly even on the shank
- The wraps should end right behind the hook eye, not near the bend
- Wet heavily before seating — the wraps need to slide together
- For circle hooks, ensure the line exits on the inside (point) side of the eye
Common Mistakes
- Wrapping in the wrong direction — wraps must progress toward the eye
- Loose, uneven wraps that slide under pressure
- Not enough wraps — 6 minimum for most hooks
- Threading back through the eye from the wrong direction