Knot of the Week: Double Fisherman’s Knot

When we left off with the Rope Coil on our Knot of the Week climbing mini-series last week, we mentioned that this week we’d review the Prusik Knot. We got to thinking that the basis of a Prusik requires a Double Fisherman’s Knot, and rather than overload the Prusik Knot post, we decided to split it up.

The Double Fisherman’s Knot is another great climbing knot to have in your toolbox. It’s primary use would be to join two lengths of rope together, but can also be used as a equipment loop/sling like the Prusik.

There are two ways we know of to tie the Double Fisherman’s Knot, and we decided to demonstrate the more complicated way. The other method for tying the Double Fisherman’s Knot is readily available out there.

Double Fisherman’s Knot » Bends

(Strength: 5/Security: 5/Stability: 4/Difficulty: 3)

Please refer to our Knot of the Week introduction post for a description of what these ratings mean.

Uses:

• Join two lengths of rope together
• Making an climbing equipment loop

Instructions:

1. Begin with two working ends overlaying each other in opposite directions
2. Start with the topmost working end and take it around the backside of the standing line
3. Cross the working end over the standing end
4. Take the working end around the standing line and itself
5. *At this point the line should somewhat resemble a Figure-Eight Knot*
6. Ensure that the working end now goes into the bottom loop of the knot
7. *While the working end will move into the bottom loop it will eventually move in the next step*
8. Pull the working end back through the the backside of the bottom loop
9. The working end should now be parallel with the standing line
10. Repeat the same instruction for the opposite side of the rope
11. Tighten the working ends of each rope
12. Pull the standing ends in opposite directions to bring the knots together and secure the ropes

View the gallery below and follow along with the steps above!

Check back next week as we continue our Knot of the Week series with the Prusik Knot!