Australian Plait or Australian Braid

The Australian braid is a strong knot for forming a loop in heavy monofilament. It is commonly used in preference to a Bimini twist in areas where Australian crews have influenced angling techniques. Big game anglers use it to form a double line to which the leader is attached. IGFA Angling rules allow a double line up to 30 feet and this can allow extra pressure to be applied to a big blue marlin or bluefin tuna once a few turns of double line are wound onto the reel. Alternative knots which can be used are the the Bimini twist or the Spider hitch for light tackle applications.

1) Start the knot with approximately 24 inches of loose end. Then loop the line around itself and start through. If you want to tie a 10 feet double line you will need 20 feet of line.

2) Pull the tag end firmly and bring the double up to meet it.

3) Begin to plait tightly so the knot never slips.

4) Continue to plait tightly as shown. The length of the plait depends on the line class and is debatable. Some anglers like 4″ for 80lb line while other will insist on 10″. Here are some suggested lengths from our friends in Australia.
1″ – 1.5″ for 6 lb and under
2″ for 8 lb to 12 lb
3″ for 16 lb to 20 lb
6″ for 30 lb
8″ for 50 lb and above

5)
a: To end the knot, form a loop with the loose end and continue to plait. Remember……tightly.

b: Then pull the doubled line throught the loop as shown.

6) Moisten with saliva and tighten steadily. Ensure that the knot forms as shown. Trim the tag end but leave enough line so that the knot doesn’t unravel, which may (unlikely if you have tied it correctly) happen if it is constantly moving in and out of rod guides. The unravelling can be prevented by applying a drop of superglue to the knot. A rubber type glue such as Pliobond also works well.