Let’s talk about knots! How many knots do I need to know when boating? Is there such a thing as a basic boating knot? The wise boater knows there is a knot for every job and how to tie it quickly and securely. Whether you’re new to boating or you're a seasoned sea dog who could use a refresher, it’s very important to keep your knot skills on point!
Here are 8 Knots Every Boater Should Know and Learn:
What is the most common boat knot?
The BOWLINE KNOT is one of the most common for boaters; since it’s both strong and easy to undo, it can serve a number of purposes. This type of knot creates a loop in the end of a rope, which won’t slip. Start by making a small loop in your rope about 18 inches from the end. Run the tag end of the line through the loop, wrap it around the main line, then pass it back through the loop again and pull tight.
What knot should I use to tie my fender?
The CLOVE HITCH is considered a “temporary” knot because it’s quick to tie, easy to release, and adjustable once it’s in place. It tends to come in handy when you’re tying a fender to a grab rail or in other situations where you may need to adjust the length of the rope.
What is a good knot to use when securing to a cleat?
The CLEAT HITCH is a popular choice for tying the craft to a dock or boat lift. Despite its impressive strength, this knot is relatively easy to tie and untie. Wrap the line once around the cleat, then over the top twice, making figure-eight patterns. On the last wrap, rotate the line into a loop and flip it upside down before wrapping it around the cleat. Then pull tight.
What is the easiest knot to use when docking my boat?
The CLEAT LOOP KNOT is the easiest and most frequently used knot when docking a boat. Slid your dock tie or dock line rope loop through the cleat. Then wrap the loops over the ends of both sides of the cleat.
What is the best knot for a boat anchor?
The ANCHOR BEND is strong, secure, and pretty simple to tie. The Anchor Bend is the knot generally used to fasten a line to an anchor. Use it in situations where you do not want the knot to come untied, such as tying to an anchoring ring. Keep in mind that sometimes, due to their sheer strength, anchor bend knots need to be cut.
What is an advantage of a sheet bend knot?
A SHEET BEND is used to tie two lines together, and works even if the lines are of different diameters. Start by making a U-shaped loop in the first line, then run the second one through it. Continue wrapping the second line around both looped strands of the first one, then pass the tag end back out through the same loop it came in through, and gently pull tight.
What kind of knot would I use to cinch down a heavy load on my boat?
The TRUCKER'S HITCH is also known as a wagoner’s hitch and is a favorite for uses like tying loads down to the deck or securing a dinghy to deck in a storm. It holds well under tension but is also easy to undo.
What is the go-to knot for sailors?
Many boaters rely on the REEF KNOT (or Square Knot) when they need to connect two lines of the same size or secure a bundle of objects. Start by wrapping the two lines together, left over right. Then wrap the tag ends over each other again, this time right over left. Finish by pulling the two standing ends apart.
If you are having an trouble with any of these knots, please check out these simple videos at AnimatedKnots.com for step-by-step instructions.
(Remember to inspect your boat lines and dock ties and replace as needed. Boat lines and dock ties weather and weaken over time.)