How to tie an oysterman's knot with animated help

Learn how to tie a knot, but not just any old knot... an oysterman's knot. You'll never have any troubles again tying oysterman's knots, thanks to this Marinews animated tutorial. You can learn by simply watching the knot tying animation at a moderate speed, or if need be, click on "learn by steps" to get step-by-step rope knot instructions for oysterman's knots.

The Oystermans Knot was given its name by Clifford Ashley, having discovered the then unnamed knot aboard an Oyster boat. When fully formed the Oystermans knot provides a solid and dependable stopper knot, best employed because of its bulk. It makes an ideal knot when threading a rope through a small hole and a stopper is required to keep it in place. Nominally this would be to secure a tent or to form a rope swing or ladder. The knot is simply formed by tying an overhand noose and bringing the tag end back through the initial bight and tightening.

There are basic rules that apply to the tying of all knots in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines. These rules apply in differing degrees to most of the knots, splices and hitches formed in multi-strand materials, such as Dacron, Micron, braided nylon and wire or cable leaders.

RULE 1: Be thoroughly familiar with all the knots you tie and continually practice the tying of those knots.

RULE 2: Always lubricate knots before tightening them, either with saliva, water or another similar lubricant. Knots tied in nylon monofilament, copolymer and cofilament lines are highly susceptible to heat friction.

RULE 3: When tightening the knot, do so gently but firmly. Do not draw the knot quickly as this can generate heat damaging the line. Give a few test pulls on the newly tied knot.

RULE 4: If you are not happy with a knot, always re-tie it until you are satisfied. Remember that a knot is effectively the weakest link between you and the fish.