Bowline
The king of knots. A fixed loop that won't slip, won't jam, and unties even after a heavy load.
What it is
The bowline makes a fixed loop at the end of a rope. It won't slip under load, won't jam after a heavy pull, and unties with a flick of the wrist — even wet, even frozen.
How to tie it
1. form a small loop (the "rabbit hole") in the standing part 2. pass the working end up through the hole 3. around the standing part 4. back down through the hole 5. dress and set — the loop stays fixed
When to use it
Mooring a line, rescuing (the "lifeline" knot), tying a halyard, or any time you need a loop that holds and releases cleanly. It's the first knot every sailor learns.