How to Tie Steel Trolling Line

Steel trolling line is a stout form of fishing line made from steel strands. This line allows trolling on the high seas for such species as shark, marlin, tuna and larger sport fish. Steel trolling line is strong and rugged, yet still remains pliable enough for tying knots or to spool up during a fight with the fish. Tying the line to use for trolling means learning the "haywire twist" knot.

Things You'll Need

  • Reel
  • Rod
  • Line
  • Clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Push the steel line through swivel or hook used for your reel setup. Double the line back up 12 inches, forming a loop from the eye-hook on the swivel or hook.

    • 2

      Point the working end of the line (the end) across the main line so it forms a 90-degree angle and then twist the two lines together up to five or six times.

    • 3

      Grap the working end of the line, holding the wrapped twists in the other hand. Push the working end over the main line and wrap it around the main six times. These wraps are known as "barrel wraps."

    • 4

      Pinch the barrel wraps tight against the main line like you are crimping it with your fingers. Turn the two wrapped loops like you are turning a crank. Do not let them further bunch up; just turn them to tighten them against the main line, thus locking the haywire twist into position. Clip off any strands pointing out. You are now ready to attach the trolling line to the bait and hook via the swivel.

    • 5

      Attach the hook or baited hook to the swivel at the swivel's gate. When tying off the haywire twist to the hook, use a Palomar knot. To tie a Palomar knot, form a loop in the end of the line, pass it through the hook eye and under the main line. Then pass it over and through the donut this has formed formed around the eye. Finally, pass the loop out from under the donut and over the hook, then draw it tightly into a knot and trim off the end.