How to Tie a PR Knot
Written By: Coty Perry
The PR knot takes some practice to master but once you get it down, you'll have 100% knot strength and confidence that your line won't fail you during a long fight with a trophy fish.
The knot does require a special bobbin tool to tie, which you can purchase at most tackle shops, but it's a small investment for the incredible strength and reliability this knot provides.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tying the Perfect PR Bobbin Knot
Follow these steps to tie a flawless PR knot every time:
- Thread your main line (braid) through the bobbin tool, leaving plenty of tag end to work with. Make 6-8 wraps around the bobbin to start.
2. Grab your leader material and tie an overhand knot, leaving at least 6 inches of tag end.
3. Pinch the braid where it comes off the bobbin and make 4-5 open turns around the leader with the bobbin, letting gravity pull the bobbin down towards the leader to keep tension.
4. Make another 3-4 turns back towards the braid manually.
5. Continue making turns, letting the bobbin hang to keep tension. Make 15-20 turns total, being sure to alternate directions between the main line and leader.
6. Pull both tag ends to settle the wraps into a compact knot. Make an overhand knot with both tags to lock the knot.
7. Trim the leader tag end close and make 4-5 more overhand knots, burying the trimmed end.
8. Slide knots down carefully to bury and trim excess tag ends. A tiny drop of super glue can help lock it.
It takes some practice, but once you perfect this knot, you'll have the ultimate offshore fishing connection.
Tips for Tying the Perfect PR Knot
Here are some of my tips for getting this intricate knot just right:
- Tie the knot the night before and allow glue to fully cure - not ideal for tying on the boat.
- Play with the bobbin tension to keep adequate (but not excessive) tension on the wraps.
- Make more wraps for a longer knot - this makes it tighter and stronger. Don't skimp!
- Alternate direction of wraps towards main line and leader. This creates the cinching effect.
- Take your time settling knots before tightening completely and trimming ends.
- Add a SMALL drop of glue on the finished knot before trimming tag ends.
Benefits of the PR Bobbin Fishing Knot
There are a few key benefits that make the PR knot my go-to for big game fish:
Extreme Strength - When properly tied, the PR knot has proven to be 100% knot strength meaning it will NEVER break or slip. You'll break the line itself first. For battling 200+ pound yellowfin, that reliability is invaluable.
Works with ANY Line Type - Braided line, fluorocarbon, mono - this knot works with any type of fishing line. For my offshore fishing, I like the combination of braid with a 4-6 foot leader of 80-100 lb fluorocarbon.
Won't Loosen or Fail - Alternating direction of wraps and long knot design allows this knot to continually cinch tighter under pressure. It will hold fast even fighting powerful fish for hours.
Minimal Line Damage - Unlike some knots, the PR doesn't compromise line strength. The gradual wraps and turns help preserve line integrity for maximum strength.
Potential Drawbacks to the PR Bobbin Knot
While this knot is definitely the strongest out there, it does have some minor drawbacks to consider.
Difficult to Tie- Like any expert knot, this takes practice! I recommend perfecting it at home before relying on it offshore. Once you master it, you can tie quickly.
Requires Special Bobbin Tool - You need this specific tapered bobbin to help apply wrap tension. It's not a complex tool and it's available anywhere but it can cost up to $50 or more.
Eats Up More Line - All those alternating wraps make this knot an inch or more long - substantially longer than simple knots. You'll lose more line each time you retie.
Not Ideal for Quick Rigging Changes - Because of difficulty to tie on the boat, this knot isn't the best for quickly switching lures or terminal tackle.
When is the PR Knot Appropriate to Use?
This specialized knot has a time and place for certain fishing situations:
Offshore Fishing
Battling powerful pelagic fish like tuna, wahoo, and mahi mean you need complete confidence in your line. That makes this knot the clear choice.
Connecting Line Types
Joining braid to heavy mono or fluorocarbon leader, the PR knot handles major differences in line diameter exceptionally well.
When You Can Prep Rigs Ahead of Time
Take the time to tie solid PR knots the night before offshore trips so you have pre-made wind-on leaders ready to go!
I don't use the PR knot on every setup but anytime I'm pitch-baiting, chunking, or live bait fishing for yellowfin, the PR bobbin knot gives me the best chance of landing big fish!
Final Thoughts on the PR Fishing Knot
It may take some dedication to master this knot, but it's absolutely worth the effort to know you have a reliable 100% knot strength connection.
Take your offshore fishing game to the next level by incorporating the PR bobbin knot into your go-to fishing knots. Confidently chase giant tunas, billfish and whatever else swims your way.
Author’s profile: Coty Perry
As a third-generation angler and the Managing Editor of Anglers, he possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in outdoor activities. He frequently enjoys fishing and camping outings with his wife and children.
