Fishing knot: the universal knot or hangman's knot

The universal knot © Guillaume Fourrier

The universal knot, or hangman's knot, is a classic that's so often used, you need to know it like the back of your hand.

The universal knot is one of the first knots to learn. Its principle of progressive tightening by sliding is simple and makes it a robust knot. When tightening, it's important to moisten the nylon and tighten very gradually to avoid the risk of overheating, causing a significant drop in monofilament strength.

This universal knot can be used with any diameter of line, from fine trout nylon to boat rope. From one to the other, only the number of turns varies: five turns with fine nylon and one or two turns with rope. This range of diameters makes it a universal knot, as its name suggests. The other name, hangman's knot, is a little gloomy, but it has the merit of being self-explanatory.

his knot is suitable for joining our small fishing accessories such as an eye hook, a lure, a swivel... It can also be used to secure a rope to a bucket or boat ring.

The universal knot step by step

Le noeud universel
The universal knot
  • 1 - To begin, firmly hold the loop formed by the line at the eyelet. Then form a second loop with the end of the line (a).
  • 2 - Twist the end of the line (a) 6 times around the two lines before pulling, loosely, to form the knot.
  • 3 - Moisten the knot before tightening and pull gently on (b).
  • 4 - Slide the knot through to the eyelet. Tighten the knot and cut the free strand to within 3 mm of the edge.
More articles on the theme