You can use a rolling hitch to secure one line to another line or a smooth cylinder, such as a post floating in the water. The knot grips an object and will not slip lengthwise along it.
The rolling hitch can be tied one-handed, allowing you to hold the object you’re tying onto with the other hand.
Hold the object in your left hand. With the working part of the line running opposite to the direction you will be hauling the object, wrap the bitter end around the object with your right hand.
When you come to the working part at the end of the first wrap, cross over the working part, and add a second wrap, again crossing over the working part.
Wrap another turn, and when you come to the working part, slip the bitter end under the last wrap.
Pull the wraps tight. Then, pull the working part in the opposite direction and over the knot. Now, you can use the rolling hitch to haul or drag the object.
Continue building your marlinespike skills by taking the Knots, Bends and Hitches seminar. Find a seminar near you or purchase the USPS guide Knots, Bends and Hitches for Mariners. Call 888-367-8777 ext. 0 for more information.
Original materials used with thanks to Irene Rodriguez and John Bennett |