I have been noticing that I am getting knots in my leader on my C-Rig. Any idea what is causing this?

I am using 50lb braid to 14lb shooter fluorocarbon 3/4oz weight, bead, clacker, swivel - with a fluke or brush hog on 3/0 ewg hook

The bait isn't rigged on the hook perfectly straight. This will cause leader twist, and eventually it will knot up on the fall through the water.

....at least that's what happens with me, and I use a c rig almost daily.

Maybe whipping the rod a little when you are casting, have to lob it. I also thumb my spool right before it hits the water which stops the weight and straightens the whole works out as it lands.

Thanks for the response, i have 2 questions to follow,

1. is there an optimal bait that reduces this effect?

2. would adding a swivel to the hook help?

This will happen from time to time. Changing baits will not help and I would not add a swivel to the hook. Just take a minute and tie a new leader. Cut a length of swimming pool foam noodle and have a bunch tied up with different lengths & hook sizes ready to go.

Hold the swivel on the noodle and wrap the leader line around the noodle until tight then stick the hook thru the swivel eye to hold it in place. A 12" piece of noodle will hold a bunch of leaders.