Knots to Know

Use the figure eight knot as a stopper knot to prevent a line from sliding through a retaining device.

Use the round turn with two half hitches when you need to attach a line under load to a fixed object.

The sheet bend is superior in its ability to hold under load and not jam or pinch, making it easy to untie after use.

Use a bowline to create a fixed sized loop, such as to go around a piling, that won’t slip under load.

Use a square knot for light-duty tasks, such as reefing or furling sails.

The clove hitch is excellent for temporary attachments.

The cleat hitch can be used to tie your boat to a dock or a mooring ball.