
Knots
Knowing how to tie a few basic knots is essential to a boater's security.
Following are simplified instructions for tying a few commonly used knots.
- Monkey's Fist
- Rolling Hitch
Clove
Hitch - This knot is the "general utility" hitch for when
you need a quick, simple method of fastening a rope around a post, spar
or stake. To tie:
- Make a turn with the rope around the object and over itself.
- Take a second turn with the rope around the object.
- Pull the end up under the second turn so it is between the rope and
the object. Tighten by pulling on both ends.
- Bowline on a Bight.
- Sheet Bend, and a modification:
- Becket Bend on a Bight as a towline towing
bridle connection.
Two
Half Hitches - This reliable knot is quickly tied and is the hitch
most often used in mooring.
- Pass end of rope around post or other object.
- Wrap short end of rope under and over long part of rope, pushing the
end down through the loop. This is a half hitch.
- Repeat on long rope below first half hitch and draw up tight.
Bowline
- This knot doesn't jam or slip when tied properly.
- Make the overhand loop with the end held toward you, then pass end
through loop.
- Now pass end up behind the standing part, then down through the loop
again.
- Draw up tight.
Figure
Eight - This knot is ideal for keeping the end of a rope from running
out of tackle or pulley.
- Make underhand loop, bringing end around and over the standing part.
- Pass end under, then up through the loop.
- Draw up tight.
Square
Knot - This knot is used at sea in reefing and furling sails.
- Pass left and over and under right end. Curve what is now the left
end toward the right and cross what is now the right end over and under
the left.
- Draw up tight.