A snelled hook makes the strongest line-to-hook connection, and, when tying a hook with an off set eye, the snell ensures the pull of the line is directly aligned with the hook point. Here’s the easiest method to snell a hook to a leader. Once learned, it can be tied by feel alone.
[1] Insert the line through the hook eye from the front, pinching the tag end against the hook shank with your thumb.
[2] Make six or seven wraps around the shank and tag end with the line, and secure the coils under your thumb.
[3] Reinsert the line through the hook eye, this time from the backside of the hook.
[4] Lubricate with saliva and pull tight.
Whichever connection you choose to tie on hooks, always complete the pulling-tight phase with the hook held at right angles to the line. Doing so gives you better leverage and minimizes the chances of sticking yourself with the hook point.
