Anyone who is into fishing is probably familiar with the fisherman’s knot, or as it is also known, English knot, waterman’s knot, or the halibut knot.
Its popularity is due to the fact that it is among the easiest knots for fishing that even beginner anglers can do right. Basically, it’s a structure that has two overhand knots that are tied around the line of the other. A loop is formed by the connection of the ends of the single rope.
If you haven’t tried a fisherman’s knot, Hook-Eze, your trusted hook tying tool maker, will share easy-to-follow steps for you to follow. But first, here are some terms you need to be familiar with.
Tag End – This is the end of each line that you will use for tying.
Standing Line – This is the rest of the line running up toward the reel.
Wrap / Turn – completely wrapping the tag end around your standing line.
How to do a Fisherman’s Knot
Keep the Ropes Parallel
Using your thumb and index finger, and keep the two ropes parallel to each other. Make sure the tag end is opposite to the other (the right rope should be on top of your bottom-left rope).
Do the First Overhand
First, do a loop, and then a wrap using the tag end of the top rope around your lower rope line. It should look like a pretzel or the letter ‘Q’ when you do it right. Once that’s done, pass the tag end through the loop or the hook eye and pull the back to tighten it.
Do the Second Overhand
Do another loop and a wrap, this time with the lower rope’s tag end around the top rope’s line. Like with the first overhand, this should create a pretzel shape. Pass the tag end through your hook and pull the end to make the loop tight.
Secure the Knot
Make sure everything is tight and secure by pulling the standing parts of both tag ends so as to draw your knots together.
Double Fisherman’s Knot
You can also opt for a double fisherman’s knot, which is two knots sliding together when you tighten them, forming a finished knot. This is considered stronger because it makes use of a couple of double overhands.
The knot is strong and does not easily slip even under strain. Also, the working ends can be cut really close to the knots without risking failure. Keep in mind that the knot tie can be done even with cold or wet hands. However, the knots can slip when slippery lines like nylon monofilament are used, and it could jam when you tighten it.
Is the Fisherman’s Knot the Best Fishing Knot?
Well, the truth is, there’s not one fishing knot that’s considered the best for every situation, as each knot is applicable for a specific use. With that being said, many still consider the fisherman’s knot to be one of the best knots for a beginner angler to start with.
Conclusion
The fisherman’s knot is fairly easy to learn and master. However, it is worth noting that it must be done correctly for it to be effective. Otherwise, there’s a risk that the knot will fail, and you don’t want that to happen. You can also use a reliable knot tying tool for fishing if you’re just starting out or if you are having dexterity issues or arthritis.
Hook-Eze offers the best fish knot tying tool in Australia that can give you the confidence to try different knots and tie your own tackle without the risk of injury. Check out our top-quality tools and other fishing accessories today!