The Sailing Club

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.

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.