Dropper Loop VS Spider Hitch

[CaptLurch]

Dropper loop Vs Spider hitch

For fishing salt water the dropper loop is probably the most popular method for attaching a sinker. After reading this you might change your mind.

Like many people my knot of choice was the dropper loop, until some one showed me how easy it breaks. Tie a dropper loop and give it a good yank on the line and every single time it will break at the knot. Then tie a Spider hitch and pull on it in the same way and one of the lines will break but not the knot.

This is important because when a dropper loop breaks you will lose both your sinker and your fish. For example if you are fishing a rock and you get bit, but the sinker gets stuck in the rock the knot will break and you will lose your fish. With a spider hitch using the same scenario the line holding the sinker will break but you will still have the fish.

I’m not saying that the dropper loop is a bad knot, it defiantly has its uses. Just give the spider hitch a try on you next trip and see what you think. I would recommend using the spider hitch on any line size under 30lb test

A spider hitch can also be used for fly lining barracuda. You can double up on your line and reduce the amount of times you get bit off.

Making a spider hitch.



This would be the finished spider hitch- tie your sinker on the short side and the hook on the long one.



These pics were done using weed whacker cord so it’s not perfect.

[CaptLurch]

I am working on some better pictures. I will have them up soon.

[Wahoo!]

Capt, I'm definitely going to try that out. This is the first time I've ever heard of that knot. Thanks for the great info!

[hrwinslow]

Something better than a knot for your weight, try using a rubberband. This has the benfit of not putting a weakspot in the line and is adjustable.

[DementedFish]

ive heard of the spider hitch before, but i didnt know what it could be used for. Now i know!