How To Tie A Fisherman's Knot (A Step-by-Step Guide)

May be known to some as the English knot, halibut knot, waterman’s knot, or even as the improved clinch knot, the Fisherman’s Knot is well known to most, if not all, anglers.

Over the years, this has gained popularity as one of the easiest knots for fishing. This knot is a proportioned structure with two overhand knots tied around the standing line of the other. This connects the ends of a single rope to form a loop.

If you’re an amateur angler or fisherman, knowing how to tie a fisherman’s knot will be helpful in attaching a fishing line to a hook.

Contents

Used Terms

Tag end– It is the end of each line that you will use for tying
Standing Line– It is the rest of the line that runs up toward the reel
Wrap or Turn– Completely passing the tag end around the standing line

How to Tie a Fisherman’s Knot

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you.

Step 1: Parallel

With your thumb and index finger, make sure the two ropes are parallel to each other with the tag end opposite to the other (right rope on top of the bottom left rope)

Step 2: First overhand

Make one loop and do a wrap with the tag end of the top rope around the lower rope line. This way, it will form a Q or a pretzel, then pass the tag end through the hook eye or loop. Pull the end to tighten the loop.

Step 3: Second Overhand

Make one loop, do a wrap with the lower rope’s tag end around the line of the top rope, form a Q or a pretzel, and then pass the tag end through the hook. Pull the end to tighten the loop.

Step 4: Tighten

To tighten, pull the standing parts of each tag end to draw the knots together.

Other Ways of Tying

Double Fisherman’s Knot– is essentially two knots that slide together when tightened to form the finished knot. It is stronger because it uses a couple of double overhand knots.

Pros

The knot is compact and strong. It does not slip under strain, and the working ends can be cut very close to the knots without risk of failure. Plus, knot tying can be done with cold, wet hands.

Cons

The knots can slip when tied with slippery lines such as nylon monofilament. When pulled to tighten, there is a tendency for it will jam. However, this con is of use when it comes to fishing. Untying the knots is difficult compared to the sheet bend.

Alternatives

Blood Knot

Uses

The fisherman’s knot is mainly used for:

scouting
knitting
fishing
tying webbing
net making
creating paracord bracelets, macrame jewelry, and keychains
knot-tying ceremonies during weddings
rock climbing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fishing knot?

Generally speaking, there are no best fishing knots for everything. Every knot has a purpose, which can be the best for one thing and not so for another. However, the fisherman’s knot can be considered the best knot for new anglers as it is easy to tie.

How strong is a double fisherman’s knot?

This knot is easy to tie, but it is likely to fail when tied wrongly. It is strong and compact enough that untying it is challenging to do.

Jon Stenstrom

Founder & Angler

Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles