Losing Irons to the kelp!

[GregAndrew]

What # line are you using, and what knots?

Originally Posted by GregAndrew

What # line are you using, and what knots?

20# braid with 30# floro leader
Usually Braid -> 120lb crane swivel via improved fishermans/clinch knot

Leader to swivel with improved clinch

Leader to ring on iron with palomer

[gabe]

Get rid of the swivel. Your iron will swim better.

Gabe

[-scallywag-]

I think your major problem is the line....if targeting YT, cbass exc near the kelp... 50,65 or even 80lb spectra to a short 30 or 40lb flouro leader is the norm...

For the iron use strait 40lb mono...you'll loose less jigs.

[CalicoCody]

X2 on the straight 40lb mono for jigs. I have had weird experiences with the Palomar knot breaking before... and since then, I have stuck with the standard San Diego jam knot, or even a Double San Diego jam (ties the same way as the single, just double the line thru the eye/ring).

[GregAndrew]

You are much more likely to be able to pull an iron out with #30+ test (as long as you are comfortable being able to break that off). The San Diego Jam on the lure ring for sure. I am happy with the Trilene Knot for swivels and hooks. Lube the line before tightening knots and retie any knot that does not look or cinch up good.

http://www.animatedknots.com/indexfishing.php

http://www.steelheader.net/knots/knots.htm

Just curious why you guys suggest mono when I can think of more benifits to braid? I must be overlooking a major benifit to mono?

Braid can cut the kelp, is stronger, and casts further? What am I missing?
Thanks for the help

[Phatford]

Originally Posted by CalicoCody

X2 on the straight 40lb mono for jigs. I have had weird experiences with the Palomar knot breaking before... and since then, I have stuck with the standard San Diego jam knot, or even a Double San Diego jam (ties the same way as the single, just double the line thru the eye/ring).

The trick to the Palomar Knot is to make sure you tie it correctly... Not saying you didn't but a lot of people just go through the motions and don't make sure the LOOP is above the Knot. It will cut a 97% knot down to like 20% if tied wrong.