Three knots anglers should know

Knot knowledge: One frustrating part of fishing is losing a fish to human error, such as tying a sloppy knot. Three knots are all an angler needs to know. They must be strong, easy to tie and functional.

Loop knot: The loop knot is tied to the hook or artificial bait. It has the most impact on catching fish. What the loop knot does that other cinch-type knots don't is allow the hook or fake bait to swing freely, giving it more action. A presentation with the appearance of life is crucial to success.

Surgeon's knot: Eliminate unnecessary components in the terminal tackle, such as swivels used to connect leader to line. Nix the swivel and tie a line-to-line knot. This also eliminates one knot in the leader makeup. A surgeon's knot is a half-hitch with the line pulled through twice.

Nail knot: A cinch knot is needed to tie on hardware such as swivel sinkers or to attach line around reel spools. A nail knot is perfect for this. It's three wraps around the thumb and line with the tag end and then the tag end pulled through under the wrap. Knot demonstrations are available online at animatedknots.com.

Rick Frazier runs Lucky Dawg Charters in St. Petersburg and can be reached at (727) 510-4376.