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Episode Show Notes
Tom Rowland, host of the Tom Rowland Podcast and professional fishing guide in the Florida Keys, demonstrates the Bimini twist, a crucial knot that creates a doubled line guaranteed to be stronger than your single strand. In this How To Tuesday episode, Tom reveals the exact 30-twist technique he uses to create a loop that breaks only in the single line—never in the doubled section—making it essential for IGFA world record attempts and any situation where you need to fish lighter class tippet. You'll discover why this seemingly complex knot is actually one of the easiest to tie once you understand the step-by-step process, and how it allows you to fish 12-pound test in the ocean while keeping most of your spool loaded with much stronger line.
What is the Bimini twist and why is it important for saltwater fishing?
The Bimini twist is a crucial knot in saltwater fishing that doubles the line over to create a loop stronger than the single strand. It allows anglers to fish with minimal class tippet—only 15 inches under IGFA rules—while using heavier line for the rest of the spool, making it essential for world record attempts and connecting leaders to main line.
Who is Tom Rowland?
Tom Rowland is the host of the Tom Rowland Podcast and the long running TV show, Saltwater Experience. Rowland was a professional fishing guide in the Florida Keys known for winning the ESPN Great Outdoor Games, Professional Redfish Tournaments and his expertise in saltwater fishing techniques, particularly knot tying and rigging systems for species like tarpon and permit.
This episode is brought to you by Star brite—the marine care company Tom trusts to keep his boats protected from the salt and sun in the Florida Keys. From boat care in a bucket to salt off rinse, Star brite has the solution. Visit starbrite.com
Why the Bimini Twist Creates a Stronger Connection Than Your Single Line
Most loop knots create a weak point where the knot is tied—but the Bimini twist is different. Tom explains that while knots like the perfection loop or double surgeons loop actually make the doubled line weaker than the single strand, the Bimini twist does the opposite. When tied correctly with 30 twists, the doubled section will always break in the single line, never at the loop itself. This makes it invaluable for fishing situations where you need maximum strength at the connection point, whether you're targeting sailfish on 12-pound test or setting up a tarpon leader with shock tippet for rough-mouthed fish. Tom actually tests the knot on camera to prove the doubled line stays intact while the single strand breaks. See the strength test results at 6:06.
How IGFA Rules Make the Bimini Twist Essential for Record Attempts
If you're serious about setting a world record, understanding IGFA tippet rules is critical—and the Bimini twist is your key to staying within regulations while maximizing your setup. Tom breaks down the exact measurements: you can use 15 inches of class tippet (the lighter line that determines your record category), followed by 12 inches of shock tippet for abrasion resistance or wire for toothy species. The Bimini twist allows you to fish the absolute minimum class tippet length allowed, then transition to much heavier line back to your fly line or main spool. Tom emphasizes that it's really hard to set a world record, so you want to be right within the rules—there's no reason to fish 40 inches of class tippet if they only require 15. The full IGFA rule breakdown starts at 2:02.
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