looking for a good, STRONG knot (better than dropper loop) for making a multi-hook leader?

I've caught some pretty big fish using a dropper loop, both with the hook on the tag end and the hook in the loop. (Like halibut over 30 pounds on 12 pound test, yellowtail to about 25 ponds on 40 pound test, and some 30 pound class tuna on 30 and 40 pound test.) So if the dropper loop is failing, you're tying it wrong, or your line is old and weak, or you're not tightening it or moistening it so it tightens snugly or something. Check out animated knots to make sure you're tying it right.

http://www.animatedknots.com/dropperloop/index.php

However, if you're dead set against the dropper loop, it seems your solution would be to invest in some 3-way swivels, and use 3 palomar knots.

Check your fishing line. @ 60 pound test, not even you can break off a tag without having to use something sharp. ( tag is the extra line from a completed knot by the way.) If the dropper loop is breaking away from the knot because the tag slips...that means you're not making the knot right. Add a few more twists, use saliva to lubricate and slide down to place a perfect knot.If you wanna lock down terminal tackle, go with a san diego Jam knot. Do some research, you'll find this knot to be very strong compared to the old standards of today. ~Good luck catchin'.

Use a drop shot rig.

http://www.netknots.com/fishing_knots/drop-shot-ri...