How long of a loop do you make. I,m thinking maybe 1/2 to 1in. on the bottom but might need to be longer on the top.
Braid is cause I use the same rods for single poling and pushing. Which for those methods, I much prefer braid. Mono/Copoly is fine for longlining but I am not changing everything up for just when I longline, so I just add a flouro leader. I could just as easily use mono for a leader but I don't. With flouro, I had a bunch of breakage with the loop knot.
I have had no more or less success using or not using the loop knot. In other words, can't say I have noticed a difference in catch rate. I usually use 1/16 oz on both and go 0.6 (plus or minus 0.2).
You must be using old line if your having break offs with loop knots. I use 4lb test when longlining and net fish over 2lb regularly. If it works for you that's all that matters, loop knots just work better for me. Good luck!
,,,,,,,-------,,7777777,,,,,........99999...........www.catchcarolina.com
I too have more hook ups on a loop knot! I use a 3 inch or so leader. The loop knot gets more hook ups in the top of the mouth where it is harder. This means less fish lost on way to the boat. I wrap my loop knot 3 times and never had on slip or break on a fish. I fish lite wire hooks mostly when in structure and occasionally have a striper straighten a hook. I was curious if you were using for a deep water tactic. Thanks!
T.C. LIKED above post
Are you guys saying use a 3-4in. loop for top and bottom rig or just for top.
Also, do you think it would hurt anything if you put a small barrel swivel above the top rig, say 6-8in. Then if you decided to tightline, you could cut your line above the swivel, slide on weight, retie and be set up to tightline if the fish were deep.
The top jig definitely needs to have a loop, you can get by without at the bottom. I don't like swivels or any other non essential tackle on my line. It adds drag and weight, which takes away from the action of the baits. I would recommend having specialized set ups for tightlining and others for long lining. I also would be patient with whichever tactic I started the day out with and try not to swap. When I push or tight line i move my rod holders to straight out of then front of the boat. This is to get baits to the fish before the trolling motor or boat. Also gives me a better view and reach to all rods.
When I longline rod holders are on each side of my seat. This allows for a larger spread and with the use of different size rods it keeps lines separated. This way gives you less tangles. Again all rods are within reach, but not as easy to see. Though, most fish hook themselves while long lining.