How to Tie Braided Fishing Line to Monofilament

If you’re looking for extra line capacity with shock resistance with your graphite rod, then learning about tying braid to mono is necessary.

While a braided can increase casting distance and has a thin profile, it is also more substantial than other fishing lines, such as monofilament. But it can be difficult to mount on a spinning reel.

Yes, you can just fill up the reel with a monoline. However, if you want to use a smaller reel, you’ll want to use a braid since it’s much thinner.

Depending on the reel spool, loading the braid straight to it can lead to slipping if not done correctly. Many individuals choose to load on a bit of mono first, then overlay it with braid, then add a small top shot of the leader to the end.

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Braided Line

Braided lines are challenging to break and increase casting distance. Although it is more expensive than most fishing lines, it is the ideal line when fishing in scrubby or weed-choked areas.

It has a long reel life if spooled correctly, but it is difficult to untangle.

Birds-nests are a pain!

Mono Backing

Mono backing has very little to no downside as they prevent the braid from spinning the reel uncontrollably. They also reduce friction as the line leaves the reel. You can save as they can be a cheap filler compared to most lines.

braided fishing line to monofilament — Monofilament line to back your braided line. Source: Sue Cook

Tying Braid to Mono: What Are the Best Knots to Connect Braid to Mono

How to tie fishing knots is the first of the many questions an angler asks. Tying fishing knots is a must-have skill for tying braid to mono. The good thing is that we have a compilation of the best knot for you right here, from the FG knot to the Royal Polaris!

1. Royal Polaris Knot (Quick & Easy to Tie)

The Royal Polaris (RP) knot can easily connect a braided to a mono leader or backing.

To tie a John Collins or RP knot, form a loop in the mono leader and bend the loop forward slightly. Feed the tag end of the braid through this loop. Then, hold the mono loop together and bring the tag end of the braid over it.

Make at least 10 to 12 wraps with the braid and feed the tag out (not the tag end) of the monofilament loop in the same direction.

Pull the loop to tighten it and slide the wraps down to the end of the loops. Pull from both ends to tighten the line. Once sliding the loops to the end, pull the small tag to keep them in place, and then do the same on the standing part before pulling the tag end again. Trim the mono tag end and the other tag to complete the knot.

2. Double Uni- Knot (Best All Around)

The knot strength of the uni knot is what makes it popular as one of the most reliable knots. However, the double variety uni knot is ideal for adding monofilament backing to a line.

You can start by overlapping the ends of the two lines, making sure you leave just enough space to make several wraps later.

Then, use the braided line’s tag end and double it back to make eight wraps around both before running the tag end through the loop you formed. Repeat this step with the monofilament line making at least four wraps.

You just tied a two-unit knot at this point. Lubricate the line and then pull the standing lines opposite to make the knots slide together to make the uni knot a double. Trim the ends as close together as possible, and you are done!

3. FG Knot (Best For Heavy Drag Fishing)

Besides these two, you should also try your hand at tying an FG knot and a slip knot tying to add mono backing to braided lines. The number of wraps will vary with the technique you use in the FG Knot.

What Makes a Good Knot: Criteria for Good Fishing Knots

How to tie knots for fishing should be on your to-do list if you want to be taken as a serious angler. Remember that the best knot you use is unique to the fishing technique and the lines you use.

A good fishing know is one that suits your fishing strategy as this is one of the most crucial aspects of fishing. Finally, be sure that you know how to make reliable knots to improve your fishing game.

A good fishing knot should be strong, easy to repeat, and quick to tie!

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you back braid with monofilament?

Yes, because it is the best way to prevent the line from spinning freely on the reel. An FG knot or the other knots mentioned above can work nicely for attaching the mono to your main braid.

Is monofilament stronger than braid?

Braided lines are considered to be stronger than monofilament based on comparable thicknesses. Although, when striking and playing a fish, monofilament lines stretch more. If the line has the ability to stretch more, it is less likely to snap. It should be noted that hook setting is more difficult on monoline than braid due to this property.

Should I wet the braid before spooling?

It’s not necessary, but it could help if you’re not using a machine to provide the proper tensioning. Before you cast, it’s important to wet your spool to prevent birds-nests.

Diana Nadim

Fishing Expert

Diana began fishing at the age of seven, as it has been a long-time family tradition. From catching small bullheads to catching strippers on the backwaters of Bighorn, she loves to get out in the wild and have a marvelous day on the water. Her dad was an expert angler, and he taught her fishing along with her two siblings. They used to go to the Bighorn River in Montana and Henry’s fork, Idaho. As a pragmatic person, she is obsessed with creating well-researched and practical guides and reviews of the best fishing methods and gear.