Field Methods Knots

Overhand Knot

Putting a knot in the end of a rope as a stopper (stop a sliding knot or make it harder for a knot to come undone), or to keep a braided line from unravelling.

Slip Knot

Slippery/quick release version of the overhand knot. Makes the know easier to untie. Can still be used as a stopper or to keep a braided line from unravelling.

Figure Eight on a Bight

Make a loop in the end of a line. Can help you join two lines together by a loop-to-loop connection (without it being permanent). Works well with lines of different diameter. Can help you swap out implements on the end of a line quickly.

Square Knot

Fastening to ends of a line together on nets, traps, etc. Hard to untie so makes it fairly permanent. Only used with similar diameter lines. Can tie an overhand knot at the ends to make more secure (for slippery line material).

Bowline Knot

Fastening line to a fixed structure (tree or stake). Not a quick way to change out a trap, but more permanent.

Taut-line Hitch

A friction knot for fastening and tightening the corners of a net, tarp, tent, rain fly, collecting sheet, etc to a fixed point. The knot can slide and tighten/loosen to adjust tension.

Sheet-bend

Joins two lines of different diameter or rigidity. Useful for repairs in fieldwork or when you need to join two “odd lines” together like a piece of cloth and rope.