How to tie cats paw variation knots with knot tying help

Learn how to tie a knot, but not just any old knot... a cats paw variation knot. You'll never have any troubles again tying fishing cats paw variation knots, thanks to this Marinews knot tie animated tutorial. You can learn by simply watching the knot tying animation at a moderate speed, or if need be, click on "learn by steps" to get step-by-step rope knot instructions for cats paw variation knots. How to make a knot is not the hard part, choosing the right fishing knots or rope knot is.

The Cat's Paw Variation is a sure way of connecting a ring, swivel or hook to a loop without too much obtrusion into the lines natural contours. Care is required in the development of the join. Be sure to keep it tidy and neat. Sometimes called Cat's Paw Splice, however, it is not a splice. The Cat's Paw Variation is one of the most common methods for attaching a ring or a swivel to a double or loop. It retains 80% of line strength, and is an easy knot to complete.

There are basic rules that apply to the tying of all knots in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines. These rules apply in differing degrees to most of the knots, splices and hitches formed in multi-strand materials, such as Dacron, Micron, braided nylon and wire or cable leaders.

RULE 1: Be thoroughly familiar with all the knots you tie and continually practice the tying of those knots.

RULE 2: Always lubricate knots before tightening them, either with saliva, water or another similar lubricant. Knots tied in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines are highly susceptible to heat friction.

RULE 3: When tightening the knot, do so gently but firmly. Do not draw the knot quickly as this can generate heat damaging the line. Give a few test pulls on the newly tied knot.

RULE 4: If you are not happy with a knot, always re-tie it until you are satisfied. Remember that a knot is effectively the weakest link between you and the fish.