The best way to tie the Kreh loop is the version popularized by Lefty Kreh himself: the classic Kreh loop knot. It creates a strong, secure loop that allows your lure or fly to move freely and naturally in the water, improving presentation and hook-up rates. Its balance of simplicity, strength, and versatility makes it the top pick among anglers targeting everything from trout to saltwater species.
What to Look For
When choosing how to tie a Kreh loop knot, several criteria truly matter:
- Loop Size and Freedom: The loop should be large enough to allow the lure or fly to move naturally without restriction but not so large that it reduces knot strength or causes tangles.
- Strength: The knot must retain a high percentage of the line’s original breaking strength to avoid losing fish.
- Ease of Tying: Since anglers often tie knots on the water, the knot should be straightforward and quick to tie, even in low light or cold conditions.
- Line Compatibility: Some knots perform better with certain line types—fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braided line.
- Reliability: The knot should consistently hold under tension without slipping or loosening.
Classic Kreh Loop Knot
Strengths: This is the original loop knot developed and popularized by Lefty Kreh. It produces a strong, secure loop that maintains about 85-90% of the line’s breaking strength. It’s praised for allowing lures and flies to move with maximum freedom, enhancing natural action in the water.
Trade-offs: The knot requires a few more precise steps than some simpler loops, so beginners may need practice to tie it quickly and correctly. It’s best tied with monofilament or fluorocarbon lines; it’s not ideal for very slick braided lines.
Who it suits: Anglers who want the best balance of strength and lure action, especially trout and freshwater fly fishermen, will appreciate this knot. It’s also suitable for saltwater anglers targeting species where presentation matters.
Lefty’s Loop Knot (Simplified Version)
Strengths: A streamlined variation of the classic Kreh loop, this knot is easier and faster to tie while still providing a reliable loop with good strength retention (around 80-85%). It works well on fluorocarbon and monofilament lines.
Trade-offs: Slightly less strong than the classic Kreh loop and may produce a marginally smaller loop, which could restrict lure movement somewhat.
Who it suits: Ideal for anglers who want a quick, reliable loop knot with decent strength for general freshwater and light saltwater fishing without the complexity of the full classic knot.
Perfection Loop
Strengths: The Perfection Loop creates a strong, fixed loop that is easy to tie and holds well under tension. It’s popular for tying loops in leader material and works well with monofilament and fluorocarbon lines.
Trade-offs: The loop size is fixed and can be small if not tied carefully. It doesn’t allow quite as much freedom of lure movement as the Kreh loop. It can also slip if not properly tightened, especially in slick braided lines.
Who it suits: Anglers who want a simple, reliable loop knot for leaders or terminal tackle setups, especially beginners or those fishing in conditions where knot speed is important.
Non-Slip Loop Knot
Strengths: This knot forms a strong, fixed loop that doesn’t slip, preserving nearly 90% of the line’s strength. It is excellent for braided lines and fluorocarbon, which can be challenging for other loop knots.
Trade-offs: It can be more complex and time-consuming to tie than the Kreh loop, requiring multiple wraps and careful tightening. The loop size is less adjustable once tied.
Who it suits: Anglers using slick or braided lines who need a secure, non-slipping loop for heavy lures or saltwater applications where strength is paramount.
Rapala Knot
Strengths: While technically a loop knot used mostly for attaching lures, the Rapala knot creates a strong, free-swinging loop that allows natural lure action. It’s widely used in spin fishing and works well on monofilament and fluorocarbon lines.
Trade-offs: It is bulkier than the Kreh loop and can reduce casting distance slightly. It’s not a fly fishing knot and is less suited for very fine leader material.
Who it suits: Spinning anglers targeting bass, pike, or walleye who want a free-swiveling loop for crankbaits, spoons, or spinnerbaits.
How to Choose
Choosing the best Kreh loop knot depends on several factors:
- Budget: All these knots are free to tie, so cost isn’t a factor. However, the line type you use may influence your knot choice; for example, braided lines often benefit from knots like the Non-Slip Loop.
- Use Case: Fly anglers seeking maximum lure action and natural drift should choose the classic Kreh loop or its simplified version. Spinning anglers using heavier lures might prefer the Rapala knot or Non-Slip Loop for strength and durability.
- Line Type: Monofilament and fluorocarbon are well suited to the classic Kreh loop and Perfection Loop. Braided lines perform better with knots designed to prevent slipping, like the Non-Slip Loop.
- Ease of Tying: Beginners may find the Perfection Loop or simplified Kreh loop easier to master, while experienced anglers will appreciate the strength and presentation benefits of the classic Kreh loop.
- Loop Size: If your lure or fly requires a large, free-moving loop, the classic Kreh loop is best. For smaller loops or terminal tackle setups, the Perfection Loop or Non-Slip Loop may be more appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I tie the Kreh loop with braided line?
A: The classic Kreh loop is less effective with slick braided lines, as it can slip. The Non-Slip Loop knot is a better choice for braided lines.
Q: Does the Kreh loop reduce line strength?
A: It typically retains about 85-90% of the line’s original strength, which is excellent compared to many other loop knots.
Q: How large should the loop be?
A: The loop should be large enough to let your lure or fly move naturally—usually about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter—but not so large that it tangles or weakens the knot.
Q: Is the classic Kreh loop knot hard to learn?
A: It takes some practice to tie quickly and correctly, but many anglers find it worth the effort for its performance benefits.
Q: Can I use the Kreh loop for saltwater fishing?
A: Yes, the classic Kreh loop works well in saltwater scenarios, especially for species where lure action is critical, but ensure you rinse and inspect knots regularly to prevent wear.
Q: What’s the best way to practice tying these knots?
A: Use a thicker practice line or rope initially, watch detailed video tutorials, and tie repeatedly until you can do it confidently, even under pressure.
Bottom Line
The classic Kreh loop knot remains the top choice for anglers who want a strong, reliable loop that maximizes lure or fly action. It strikes the ideal balance between strength, loop freedom, and versatility. For those new to the knot or looking for quicker alternatives, Lefty’s simplified version and the Perfection Loop are excellent options. If you fish with braided lines or need maximum security, the Non-Slip Loop knot offers superior slip resistance. Ultimately, your choice depends on your line type, target species, and how much time you want to invest learning the knot, but mastering the classic Kreh loop is a worthwhile skill for any serious angler.
Remember, no knot beats practice — tying your preferred Kreh loop knot confidently will improve your fishing success and enjoyment.
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