It’s not news that thousands and thousands of knots have been used throughout the ages. Though quite a few may be basic knots combined into fancier variations, the fact is that you’d never have enough time to get out on the water if you stayed ashore learning numerous knots.
Since we need a knot to do one job — stay fastened no matter what — boaters need to learn under a dozen knots to get by. Knots that slip, knots that never slip, knots that grip, knots that never grip: get the picture?
While experienced mariners may have their favorites or come up with a more extensive list of necessary knots, we feel secure in thinking these eight knots will tide over most recreational boaters.
- Anchor bend or anchor hitch. When you don’t use a chain and need your anchor to stay tethered to the anchor rode, this is the knot you need.
- Bowline. A stable knot that will not jam — it can be untied even if under extreme tension.
- Cleat Hitch. When there’s a cleat, use a cleat hitch. It’s a quick knot to secure your vessel, and it comes undone almost as fast.
- Clove Hitch. It’s a quick knot for tying moving objects to fixed ones, or to secure fenders, but this versatile knot can come undone if both objects aren’t stable.
- Figure Eight. Also known as a stopper knot because it’s secure and has a loop that won’t slip out. This knot is useful for securing to a mooring.
- Reef or Square. Quick to tie but don’t rely on it for anything but a quick tether.
- Sheet Bend. A knot that unites two ropes of unequal size.
- Wagoner’s or Trucker’s Hitch. A very helpful knot to secure supplies or equipment onto a dolly or cart that will easily release for loading onto the vessel.
A web search for nautical knots videos will yield plenty of short and very long how-to demonstrations suitable for those (k)not confident in their tying techniques.
