This knot is used to form a standing loop at the end of your line. It's very simple to tie and will hold the strength of the line well. The knot will not slip tight when you pull on it and the loop stays open even under a load. The Surgeon's End Loop knot has been around a long time, has been tested by many fishermen, and has proved itself often.

When to Use the Surgeon's End Loop Knot

Use the Surgeon's End Loop knot when you need a loop at the end of your line to attach hooks, leaders, or other lines. You can quickly attach a Snelled hook (see Chapter 9) or a lighter leader. You can use it to tie on a plug that needs to swing freely, but the Rapala knot is better for that purpose. This knot is best for tying an open loop with nothing on it when you tie the knot. You attach the tackle after tying the knot for the best results.

How to Tie the Surgeon's End Loop Knot

To tie the Surgeon's End Loop knot:

• Double the end of the line, making the doubled section a little longer than you want the loop to be.

• Start by tying an Overhand knot where you want the base of the loop to be, but don't tighten it down.

• Bring the end of the loop through the Overhand knot.

• Keep our finger in the loop and slowly tighten down the doubled Overhand knot.

• When it gets almost tight, wet it; then pull the loop while holding the standing line.

• Make sure the coils of the knot are even and not on top of each other.

FIGURE 8-9

Tying a Surgeon's End Loop knot.

FIGURE 8-10

A finished Surgeon's End Loop knot.