5 Essential Canoeing & Paddling Knots You Should Know

It’s hard to have a tight and tidy camp without tying a few knots! There are dozens of knots out there, but for the sake of simplicity, there are two knots you will use 80 percent of the time in the BWCA: the bowline and the taut-line hitch.

Bowline

The bowline is a loop that does not slip. Perfect for tying down stakes and a million other uses

Taut-line

The taut-line hitch allows you to adjust and tighten a line that cinches under pressure. Great for getting a tight tarp or clothesline.

Now, there are times when neither of the above two knots will do.

Trucker’s Hitch

If you’ve ever tied a canoe to a car, you’ve used the trucker hitch to secure the bow and the stern to the front and back of your vehicle. This adjustable knot is ridiculously strong and can be used in camp when bunkering down for a storm, or just for fun. And it is a lot of fun to tie.

Square Knot

Also known as a Reef Knot; this temporary binding knot is used to secure a rope or line around an object. It’s also used in tying bandages. The knot lies flat when made correctly. WARNING: This is great for temporary use, but never use when safety is concerned (to secure a critical load).

Hitching Tie

When you have an unruly amount of rope at the end of your line, a hitching tie is a simple way to tie off the end to an anchor. Use this knot with a taut-line to make a perfect clothes line.