Many years ago, I rigged a line strength and knot tester by mounting an old level wind reel and a zebco deliar to a board. I was able to test my knots and found that the number of twists in an improved clinch knot varied with the pound test I was tying. I believe 5 twists were ideal for 6 and 8 lb trilene xl if I remember correctly. Anyway, I could see what failed and at what weight it failed. Sometimes the main line would break, away from the knot, sometimes the knot would slip. I could see the tight curls left in the old knot location. Maybe this helps? I did tie to a large swivel, so I had it there to analyze after the failure. Going back to the previously mentioned failure at half strength... if 60 lb test is breaking at 30lb, you should be ok pulling in a pike. I haven't caught huge pike, but I'm guessing they can't pull thirty lbs worth? Now after the teeth factor comes in, you may not have 30lb of strength left but that can only be negated with steel or titanium. My 2 cents. Thanks for all the info sharing. I am gonna try the uni knot with some 40 lb flourocarbon.