Double-Fisherman Bend

The Double-Fisherman Bend, which in rope nomenclature means to “join” two ropes together.

It is a popular, secure (safe) load bearing, knot that would be safe to rappel on.  In contrast and for re-emphasis, the EDK knot is a simple and easy way to join two ropes together but is NOT safe to rappel on.The Double-Fisherman Bend is safe and secure to rappel on.

It should be noted that ropes made with Technora or Dyneema can be “slick” (which means you will have less friction) to rappel on and likewise goes with this knot, to add another margin of safety, a Triple-Fisherman Bend is recommended if you use ropes made with those components.

To tie, you will lay two rope ends next to each other and wrap around one rope twice and then using the other rope to wrap around it twice, followed by going through those wraps and pulling tightly.  Then pull on both ropes so that the knots are against each other.

Note: To do a Triple-Fisherman Bend, instead of wrapping the rope twice, you would do it three times.

Pros:

• One of the most secure knots for joining two ropes together, with the same rope thickness or not (a 9 mm and 9 mm, and 8 mm and 11 mm, etc.)

• The knot tightens under load, making it very unlikely to fail.

Cons:

• Quite difficult to untie, especially once loaded. a bulky knot and must be considered if the canyon constricts or narrow and the knot is unable to go over the rappel edge, etc.

Caution:

• Triple-Fisherman Bend is recommended if you use ropes made with Technora or Dyneema

Canyoneering Usage Examples:

• Securing two ropes together when strength and durability are the top priorities, such as during heavy-load rappels.

• Creating strong loops in cordage for prusiks or other friction hitches used in rescue scenarios.

Additional Reading:

• Wikipedia.org: “Double fisherman’s knot”

• DyeClan.com: “Double Fisherman’s Bend (Grapevine Knot)”

• CanyoneeringUSA.com: “How to Tie Two Ropes Together”

• NetKnots.com: “Double Fisherman’s Knot”