Shaw Grigsby | Clinch Knot vs. Improved Clinch Knot Test | Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 891

Professional bass fisherman Shaw Grigsby joins Tom Rowland on the Tom Rowland Podcast to settle one of fishing's most debated questions: is the improved clinch knot actually stronger than the standard clinch knot? In this How 2 Tuesday episode brought to you by Danco, Tom puts both knots to the test using 20 pound Daiwa j fluoro line and reveals which knot comes out on top. The clinch knot is the foundational knot most anglers learned from their grandfather or father—your basic fisherman's knot—but does one extra step make it stronger? Tom shares the exact breaking strength numbers and percentages for both knots, and the results might surprise you. This is practical, hands-on fishing knowledge that every angler from beginner to tournament pro needs to know.

The Clinch Knot: Your Grandfather's Knot

There's a reason the clinch knot is the first knot most anglers ever learn. It's simple, reliable, and has been passed down through generations of fishermen. Tom describes it as "a knot that most people's grandfather taught them, their father taught them, somebody taught them the first time they ever go fishing." It's the foundational knot—your basic fisherman's knot that gets you on the water. But in the world of fishing, where margins matter and a lost fish can be the difference between a tournament win and going home empty-handed, every percentage point of knot strength counts. The question becomes: can this classic knot be improved with just one additional step? Tom sets up the knot comparison at 1:36.

The Testing Method: Same Line, Real Numbers

To ensure a fair comparison, Tom uses the exact same line from the same spool for both knots: 20 pound Daiwa j fluoro. This eliminates variables and gives anglers real, comparable data. The testing methodology is straightforward but rigorous—each knot is tied properly according to its specific technique, then tested to failure. Tom doesn't just tell you which knot is stronger; he gives you the actual breaking strength numbers and the percentage of rated line strength each knot delivers. These aren't theoretical numbers from a lab—this is practical testing that reflects what happens on the water when you're fighting fish. The full testing results are revealed at 2:18.

The One Extra Step That Changes Everything

The improved clinch knot differs from the standard clinch knot by exactly one step. That single additional move in the tying process changes the knot's structure just enough to add strength without adding complexity. Tom poses the key question to his audience: "Is that one extra step worth it?" When you're dealing with trophy fish, tournament pressure, or simply want the confidence that your knot will hold when it matters most, even a fraction of a percentage point can make the difference. The improved clinch knot edges out the standard version, coming in at 17.03 pounds versus 16.85 pounds—a gain of 0.9 percentage points in knot strength. For anglers who take their craft seriously, that's a meaningful upgrade for minimal additional effort. The comparison and final question starts at 2:52.

Learn to Tie Both Knots with Detailed Instructions

Knowing which knot is stronger is only half the equation—you need to be able to tie both correctly to make an informed choice for your fishing. Tom directs viewers to detailed tying instructions available on the Tom Rowland Podcast YouTube channel, where you can see step-by-step demonstrations of both the clinch knot and the improved clinch knot. Whether you're a beginner learning your first knot or an experienced angler looking to refine your technique, having visual instruction ensures you're tying these knots properly and getting the full strength potential. Tom also offers the Tom Rowland Podcast Knot Guide as a free resource for anglers who want comprehensive knot knowledge at their fingertips. Tom mentions the instructional videos at 2:13.

Final Thoughts from Tom

Knot testing is one of my favorite things to share with you because it's pure, practical knowledge that makes you a better angler. The numbers don't lie—the improved clinch knot is stronger than the standard clinch knot, period. But the real question is whether that 0.9% difference matters to you and your fishing. For some anglers, the standard clinch knot has served them perfectly for decades. For others, especially tournament pros or anglers chasing big fish, that extra percentage point is non-negotiable.

What I love about this test is that it empowers you to make an informed decision. Now you know the exact numbers. You know the effort required. You can decide for yourself whether that one extra step is worth it for your style of fishing. I want to hear from you in the comments—are you team clinch knot or team improved clinch knot?

This How 2 Tuesday episode is short and focused, but it delivers knowledge you'll use every time you tie on. Whether you're rigging up for tarpon in the Keys or bass in freshwater, your knot is your connection to the fish. Make it count. Watch the full episode to see the testing process and learn how to tie both knots properly.