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How to Tie a Double Snell Knot

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The double snell knot or snell rig can be used to increase your hookup ratio significantly by improving the hook set. These knots are great for catching quick, aggressive fish such as bass, catfish, salmon, and carp.

Learn how to use this knot to attach two fishing hooks using this method by following these steps:

How to Make a Double Snell Rig

double snell knot

Step 1

You will need two hooks for this. Take one hook in your left hand and insert the tag end of the line through the hook eye, making sure it lies flush with the shank. 

Step 2

Wrap the line clockwise 6 to 8 times around the shank, making sure they don’t overlap and remain tight. Use your finger for this.

Step 3

Take the other tag end of the line and thread it through the hook eye to create a big loop.

Step 4

Wrap the second line 5 to 6 times along the shank, making sure the first tag end remains flush against it as well.

Step 5

Moisten the knot and then pull the second tag end tight slowly.

Step 6

Take your second hook and thread the central part of the tag end of the line through the eye. And then repeat the knot to secure it. You now have your double easy snell knot. You can also make it a double bead snell knot by adding beads. 

YouTube video
 

Tips

  • Make sure you moisten the knot as you make it reduce friction and especially after you make the loop.
  • Use a size 2 to size four hook.
  • A sickle-style hook can increase your hookup ratio if you use them for these knots.

Uses

double snell knot catfishing
Using a Double Snell Rig is great for catching catfish. Source: Paul Andrews
  • Use these knots to increase the number of hookups you get. 

Advantages and Disadvantages

The only downside of tying this knot like this is the number of times you have to practice tying it. It can be hard at first, but once you get the hang of it, tying this best knot should be comfortable, and you will be catching bass in no time. If you know how to snell a hook or how to snell hooks, doubled snell knot tying should be easy. 

The best benefit of this knot is the robust hook set it offers. 

Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a snell knot with braid?

Yes, you can. You can also tie it with a mono and fluoro line.

Should I use a pre-rigged double snell knot or make my own?

You can use a pre-rigged one, but you will lose more lures that way, so it is better if you learn to tie one yourself. Use a video tutorial to practice easy fishing knots first.

What pound of line should I use for my leader?

A line that can withstand a 12 to 17-pound test should do for your leader line. The stiffer the line is, the more action you will get, and the thicker the line, the more abrasion-resistant it will be.

Jon Stenstrom
Founder & Angler
Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles
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