N G K N O TS
with Chris Zaldain
E
ach season, Bassmaster Elite Series pro
Chris Zaldain employs the gamut of fish-
ing catchin’ techniques, targeting bass in all
types of fisheries and all types of cover. His experience across the country has helped him nar-
row down a handful of knots that are most effective
with the lines and lures that he uses. He shared his
thought combinations.
To begin, the native Californian described the two
different types of braided line that he has on his reels.
His choices were Seaguar’s Kanzen and Smackdown.
He explained that each one has differing attributes
and uses, sharing the specific situations where each excels.
TOPWATER BRAID
For surface lures, Zaldain opts for 40- or 50-lb Kanzen. He chooses it for its casting ability and zero stretch characteristic.
“Almost 100 percent of the time, I use 40-lb on a baitcaster for throwing any type (size) of topwater – whether it be a little ¼ oz buzzbait, a popper or a walking-type bait,” he said. “Kanzen is more of a
gritty rope-style
braid. If you look
at Kanzen at a
microscopic level, it
has high spots and
low spots. That is
what makes it more
like a braided rope.
The high and low
spots means there
is 50 percent less
friction, compared
to the real smooth
type of braided
lines. Less friction
through your guides
means longer
casts”
His knot for
topwater lures is a
Double Palomar.
SPRING 2016
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