Forecast & Current Temp

Full details here

Bionic Braid
Knots and Connections

Knotted Dog Leaders

There are a number of knots and connections that have been specifically devised for use with spectra or dyneema lines. Basically these involve oodles of wraps and the positioning of any crossovers at the rear of the knot. A good analogy is traffic flows, the reduction in the potential for crashes on a roundabout as compared to cross roads.

These break figures on popular fishing knots represent an average taken on exhaustive lab tests.

Single overhand knot .....................................................60%
Six turn Uni-Knot (tied with Bionic Braid doubled) ................70%
Spider Hitch (tied with Bionic Braid doubled) .......................70%
30 turn Bimini Twist .......................................................70%
70 turn Bimini Twist (Highly recommended) .........................88%

Of the methods used to connect Spectra/Dyneema to flylines and mono trolling casting leaders, by far the safest, strongest and most efficient is a self locking loop to loop method developed by Rod Harrison and called the Bionic Bind. A 70 turn Bimini Twist forms the basis of the Bionic Bind. Anglers intimidated by the Bimini Twist - a much simpler knot to tie in GSP lines, by the way - can make a loop with a 6 turn Uni-knot.

To join your leader to the Bimini Twist 'figure eight' the flyline or leader six times over/under both strands of the loop you've made in the Bionic Braid with the Bimini Twist. When pulling down this connection, make sure it is done evenly so that it locates in the apex of the loop before given a final tightening.

Click here for a larger, printable version

While this connection offers unsurpassed security, it is more difficult to undo than the standard loop join. With flylines it is recommended that a fresh Bimini Twist be made. When an angler induced break-off occurs - events less frequently caused by fish, the Bionic Braid loop simply cuts through the strands of the mono leader. Anglers can achieve a quick turnaround by adding another leader. However, it is recommended that the loop in the Bionic Braid be changed from time to time.

A brief history - Thinner, stronger & more - Super tight weave - Better lure actions - Slick Hi-Viz Finish - Hard wearing and longer lasting - Order - Excellent as Fly reel backing - Top of page

Knotted Dog Leaders

Information and graphics for linking to this site can be found here