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Knots Vs Swivels For Leader

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I watched a short clip of Brent Chapman discussing how he either uses straight braid on his spinning reels, or uses a small swivel to attach a leader.

 

https://youtu.be/EzAeQgu40U4

 

I just want to know how many of you use knots to attach a leader vs how many use a swivel.

 

Thanks!

  • Super User

Knot. They don't make a swivel small enough to pass a 3.5mm or 4mm guide.

that guy is fishing a drop shot, and for that specific application, i can see the appeal of a swivel. 

 

I also fish braid but i never use a swivel.

I typically use a 5-6 ft leader = knot

  • Super User

I would only use a swivel if line twist was a real concern.  With a swivel you have to be careful not to reel it up into your guides.

uni-uni knot or Alberto. The only time I use a swivel is on a c rig or double fluke rig.

I primarily fish braid with a 3-8 foot leader of fluorocarbon.  I never use a swivel, unless it is absolutely necessary for line twist.  I don't like how swivels effect my rate of fall and they can catch on grass, rocks, etc.  I am primarily a slack-line line watcher, and with braid (zero slack-line sensitivity) I need as much direct connection and the least amount of factors affecting the rate of fall and movement of the line as possible.

  • Super User

I do both, generally start off with knot, there are times when I need  fresh leader, I can tie to a swivel under moonlite a lot easier.  Fisher makes a 100# swivel so small it will pass thru the guides quite easily, I threw them away.

Using a knot gives you the ability to have a much longer leader.

  • Super User

I think, regardless of how small the swivel is, you will be risking guide damage if you continually pass it through the guides.  Unless you are using drop shot or other special techniques requiring a swivel, learn a good line to line knot.  Double uni is hard to beat if you are not using micro guides.

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