ianain

I've just found a couple of youtube vids. The first one show you the Knot I'm on about, albeit in a slightly different way:- And the second one is one of the best knot tying demonstrations I've seen http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuYeFIPtHlk

Thanks, I can see from my description why this looks more likely. I think it's got more in common with the snell knot though, I've drawn something, I hope it's clear:- You use the loop to make the whippings around the shank

I use a knot which is similar to the snell, but as I used it originally for spade end hooks, I don't pass the end through the eye twice so hook size shouldn't be a problem; I've used it down to size 32 (yes smaller than 26!) Should point out not using 20lb line Basically, I form a loop, and align it along the shank (between the shank and hook bend) whip the loop around the shank around eight times, then pull the end (after wetting) to tighten the knot. I found that once you wet the knot, if you tighten it too much before moving it up to the end of the hook (spade or eye) you cannot move the whipping. This was how I first made hairs. I've no idea what the knot is called, but it works for me.

Passion, has to be the best; it really captures the spirit and atmosphere of fishing.

I admire your honesty, but I agree with the others, learn to tie your own. Pre-tied are supposed to be pretty good, but I wouldn't really trust them because they are so cheap, someone has to pump them out fairly rapidly. I've never bought them so I don't know