Make sure you wet the knot before you tie it. Some split, or charter buddy I know uses some soapy water (hvy mono over 80 lbs) in a bottle.
Palomar is easy and extremely strong. Berkley knot is easy to tie as well. Simple clinch is fine as long as you wet it.
Albreight to mono-braid is awesome.
At least you are getting fish on! You have stories to tell as well.
