Tackle Index
Knot

Arbor Knot

Line to the reel spool arbor.

Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy

At a glance

What this knot is for

Joins
Line to the reel spool arbor
Line types
Mono, fluorocarbon and braid alike — this is a utility knot, not a terminal or leader knot.

Reach for it when

  • Attaching backing or main line to an empty spool before spooling up
Method

How to tie the arbor knot

  1. 1Pass the line around the spool arbor and tie a simple overhand knot around the standing line.
  2. 2Tie a second overhand knot in the tag end on its own, a few centimetres further along.
  3. 3Pull the standing line so the first knot slides down and jams against the second, stopper knot.
  4. 4Trim the tag end and spool the line on.
Arbor KnotPhoto: Wikimedia Commons

Work on a flat surface with enough line in your hand to pull the knot down firmly, and check the wraps sit neatly before you trim anything away.

Why it works

  • Simple and secure enough for its only job, which is to stop the line spinning on the spool

Where it lets you down

  • Not designed to hold under fishing load — it exists purely to anchor line to the spool before winding on
  • With braid, a turn or two of tape under the first wraps helps stop it spinning on a smooth arbor
Shop

The tackle this knot ties

The knot itself costs nothing — it joins your line to the tackle you buy. This search shows the general category this knot is tied onto, never a named brand or model.

Shop monofilament fishing line
Keep going

More knots worth learning

Improved Clinch Knot →Palomar Knot →Uni Knot →Double Uni Knot →Blood Knot →Surgeon's Knot →Surgeon's Loop →Figure-of-Eight Loop →
Check the rules where you fish
Some waters restrict tackle or methods — barbless hooks, lead sinkers, certain rigs and line types. Confirm the rules of the water you are fishing before you use any rig or knot.