6) Field checks, knot notes, and related guides

Field checks before launch:

• Deflection test: With your chosen bait tied on, make a gentle two-hand swing load. The bend should start in the upper third and sweep smoothly into mid-blank without a sharp hinge. If the tip folds with little resistance, payload is too heavy; if barely any bend, payload is too light.
• Guide and ring integrity: Run a cotton swab through each guide; fibers snagging indicate cracks that will shred 20–25 lb fluoro quickly.
• Drag and handle torque: With the bait hanging, pull line by hand to simulate a surge. The reel seat and handle should not twist. If it does, re-seat or service before fishing.
• Knot proof: Wet and fully seat San Diego Jam, Palomar, or Improved Clinch; pull hard against a glove. Re-tie after any rock or dock rub.

Knot notes for leaders and terminals:

• FG knot: Form a tight V with the braid between fingers; pass the leader alternately under each leg of the V so crossings alternate and bite. After 16–22 alternating wraps, add a couple of half hitches to temporarily lock, then firmly set the braid and leader under steady tension before trimming the leader tag. Finish with alternating half hitches on the braid. Do not use teeth, bare-finger line wraps, or burn/melt tags. Seat the knot before cutting tags.
• Albright vs Alberto: A true Albright wraps in one direction around the doubled line and exits the same side it entered. A return wrap back up the knot is the Alberto, not the Albright.
• Blood knot is not a default choice for braid-to-leader. For braid to fluoro/mono, use an FG (as above) or another proven braid-specific connection.

Related guides (titles only):

• Swimbaits (primary)
• Jerkbaits and Glide Baits (secondary)
• Casting Crankbait Rod Selection
• Casting Flipping vs Punching
• Casting Worm & Jig Control

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