Surgeon's Knot
Also called: double overhand join
A fast way to join two lines of similar thickness, such as a leader to a main line.
- Type
- Fishing Knots
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Good for
- Fishing
What it is for
- Attaching a leader to a main line
- Joining two pieces of fishing line
- A quick, simple connection when speed matters
How to tie it
- Overlap the two lines to be joined by several inches, side by side.
- Treating the two as one doubled strand, tie an overhand knot, but do not tighten it.
- Pass the ends through the loop a second time for a double overhand.
- Moisten the knot and pull all four ends to tighten it evenly.
- Trim the tails.
There are no diagrams on this page yet. Tie it along with the steps using a short piece of cord, and compare your result with a photograph or an instructor before you rely on it.
Tips
- Join lines of similar diameter for the best result.
- Pull all four ends together and slowly.
When not to trust it
- It is bulkier than refined line-to-line knots.
- It can weaken if the two lines differ a lot in diameter.
Often confused with
- Double fisherman's knot: stronger and compact, but slower to tie.
Field notes
The surgeon's knot is a good choice when your fingers are cold or the light is poor and you need to add a leader quickly.
Related guides
This page explains how to tie an everyday knot. It is not training for climbing, rappelling, tree stand fall protection, or rescue. If a failure could injure someone, learn from a qualified instructor and use equipment rated for the job.