Fishing Knot Strength Advisor

Calculate effective breaking strength and get the right knot for your line type and application.

Strongest and most reliable all-around fishing knot. Very easy to tie.
Results
14.6 lbs
Effective Strength
95–100%
Knot Efficiency
Excellent
Rating

Best for: Direct lure or hook tie — works on all line types

All Knots — Mono Efficiency
KnotEfficiencyDifficultyBest For
Palomar Knot95–100%easyHooks, Lures
Improved Clinch85–95%easyHooks, Lures
Uni Knot (Duncan Loop)90–95%easyHooks, Lures
FG KnotadvancedBraid to fluoro leader, Braid to mono leader
Alberto KnotmoderateBraid to leader
Double Uni Knot85–90%easyLine-to-line, Braid to leader
Surgeon's Loop85–90%easyLoop-to-loop, Leader attachment
Blood Knot80–90%moderateMono-to-mono line join, Fly fishing tippet
Snell Knot90–95%moderateHooks (snelling), Bottom fishing
Frequently Asked Questions

The Palomar knot consistently tests at 95–100% of line strength on mono, fluorocarbon, and braid — making it the strongest all-around knot. The FG knot achieves 95–100% specifically for connecting braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader. For leader connections, the Alberto knot is nearly as strong and easier to tie.

Always use the Palomar with braid. The Improved Clinch knot tests at only 50–65% efficiency with braid because braid does not compress like monofilament. The Palomar (and Uni knot) work much better with braid's slick, non-compressible surface.

The FG Knot is the gold standard — it tests at 95–100% and has a thin, smooth profile that passes easily through rod guides. The Alberto Knot is a good alternative at 90–95% efficiency and is easier to tie. The Double Uni Knot is the easiest option at 80–85% and is reliable for most fishing applications.

Friction heat generated when cinching a dry knot can weaken the line by 10–20%. Monofilament and fluorocarbon are especially vulnerable. Always wet the knot with saliva or water before pulling it tight. This reduces friction, allows the coils to seat properly, and preserves the line's rated breaking strength.