Arbor Knot
A simple way to attach fishing line to the center of a reel spool before winding on line. In cord, the same structure is called the Canadian Jam Knot.
How to tie the Arbor Knot
- Pass the line around the spool.
- Tie an overhand knot with the tag around the standing line, then another overhand in the tag itself.
- Pull the standing line so the attachment closes against the spool and the stopper seats.
Safety note: These steps support practice and recognition. Climbing, rescue, lifting, towing, and other critical systems require qualified instruction and equipment-specific procedures.
Which knot should you choose?
Use this for the spool attachment; use a Palomar or Improved Clinch for a hook connection.
Why it earns its place
Two overhand knots provide a compact sliding attachment and a stopper for the tag end.
Where it fails
The tag-end stopper is essential. Check the reel and line manufacturer’s instructions for slippery braid or polished spools.
Quick facts
| Function | Fishing connection |
| Practice level | 1 / 5 (editorial rating) |
| Tutorial | Animated Knots by Grog |
External reference
KnotStyle provides the selection advice, written practice sequence, inspection points, and cautions above. Use this independent animation as an additional visual reference.
View external animation ↗Source and editorial notes
Reference: Animated Knots by Grog: Arbor Knot. Source checked 2026-09-11. Selection advice and difficulty ratings are editorial judgments, not strength tests. How this guide is prepared.