Spider Hitch
Spider Hitch
A quick alternative to the Bimini Twist for creating 100% strength doubled line. Easier to tie without a partner — creates the same doubled section in half the time.
Video by Sportfishing Report on YouTube
About the Spider Hitch
The Spider Hitch creates a strong doubled-line loop similar to the Bimini Twist but with a simpler tying process that can be done solo, without a partner holding the line. It's popular with offshore anglers who need a Bimini-equivalent connection but want to rig up quickly.
While some tests show the Spider Hitch slightly below 100% on heavier line, it's generally accepted as equal to the Bimini Twist for lines up to 30-40 lb and is significantly faster to tie under real fishing conditions.
Best Used For
Ideal applications
- ✓ Creating doubled line without a partner
- ✓ Quick offshore rigging
- ✓ Lines up to 40 lb
- ✓ Faster Bimini Twist alternative
Not ideal for
- ✗ Very heavy lines over 50 lb (Bimini Twist is more reliable)
- ✗ Tournament fishing requiring certified 100% strength
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 5 steps to tie the Spider Hitch. Watch the video above while following along.
Step 1: Form a large loop
Create a large loop about 2 feet long by doubling the line back. Hold the crossing point between thumb and forefinger.
Step 2: Wrap 5 times around thumb
Hold your thumb upright inside the loop. Wrap both legs of the loop around your thumb 5 times, moving from your fingers toward the tip of your thumb.
Step 3: Pass the loop over the thumb wraps
Push the large loop (the doubled section) over your thumb and through all 5 wraps.
Step 4: Pull the loop through
With the loop through all wraps, remove your thumb and pull the loop firmly to draw the wraps together into tight coils.
Step 5: Wet and seat
Wet the coils. Pull the loop and both standing line legs simultaneously to seat the coils tightly. The doubled loop should extend freely with tight coils at the base.
Pro Tips
- Five wraps around the thumb — no more, no less
- Keep the wraps going in one direction up the thumb
- Pull smoothly and firmly — the coils need to compress evenly
- Wet before final seating for best results
Common Mistakes
- Wrapping in both directions around the thumb
- Too many or too few wraps
- Pulling the loop alone instead of loop plus both legs
- Uneven coil compression — pull all three strands together