A Few Knots to Know Before You Go...
By R. Karl
There are a number of very basic knots
with which even the most casual of boaters should familiarize himself in
order to ensure that, among other things, the boat stays where it was tied. That in mind, this
month’s article deals with the basic knots you can use while boating.
Actually, these knots have many uses and come in handy in a number of
different applications.
Knot tying
is part of the practice of what is known as marlinspike seamanship
– the general knowledge of knots and the care of rope. Whether you are
the skipper of a small fishing boat or the pilot of a much larger craft, a
few basic knots and a few definitions will prove helpful. Keep in mind
that rope is rope… but once on board a vessel, it becomes a line.
A line has three parts:
In general: a knot is a general term
for securing a line to an object, another line or to itself. A good knot
is easy to tie and untie, and will not slip under the extreme amounts of
tension to which it is generally subjected. Many boats -- poorly
moored -- have gotten loose during the night and drifted far from the
unsuspecting and surprised skipper.
There are 4 – 5 basic knots that
every boater should know. They are the Cleat
Hitch, Bowline, Square or Reef Knot, and The
Clove Hitch and Two Half Hitches. Actually the Clove Hitch is a knot
by itself, but is known to slip without the Half Hitches. (That’s where 4
knots becomes 5.) And rather than try to take you through a step-by-step
written explanation, I’ll refer you once again to a site to which I sent
you last month. There you will see animated gifs that will walk you
through each of the knots mentioned. The site also tells you what
specific things the knots are used for. It is one of the best I have
seen. Follow the link below:
http://www.boatsafe.com/nauticalknowhow/boating/7_1.htm
There are many other knots that are
useful and helpful. But start with these few basics. It’s amazing how
useful you will find these knots to be. You can use them for everything
from tying up your boat to tying a clothesline to your porch. All it
takes is a little practice and you will soon be an expert! Happy boating…
and I’ll see you On the Lake.
