The Sailing Club - Seamanship and Navigation

The Sailing Club, Inc.

Knots

While there are thousands of knots, a handful are essential to the well prepared sailor. Here are seven to get you started.

Illustration Knot Description

Anchor Hitch Used to attach a line to an object. Holds well even when tension on line is changing, for instance with an anchor.

Bowline When in doubt, use a bowline.

Clove Hitch Used to attach a line to an object. Not a highly secure knot, but sufficient to attach fenders to lifelines.

Figure Eight A stopper knot. Used at the end of a line to keep it from sneaking away. Often seen at the end of jib sheets.

Rolling Hitch A versatile hitch that can be adjusted and tied under tension.

Sheet Bend Used to attach two lines together.

Reef Knot (Square knot) Good for reef points and shoes.

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Illustration	Knot	Description
	Anchor Hitch	Used to attach a line to an object. Holds well even when tension on line is changing, for instance with an anchor.
	Bowline	When in doubt, use a bowline.
	Clove Hitch	Used to attach a line to an object. Not a highly secure knot, but sufficient to attach fenders to lifelines.
	Figure Eight	A stopper knot. Used at the end of a line to keep it from sneaking away. Often seen at the end of jib sheets.
	Rolling Hitch	A versatile hitch that can be adjusted and tied under tension.
	Sheet Bend	Used to attach two lines together.
	Reef Knot (Square knot)	Good for reef points and shoes.