Bowline Knot Guide: How to Tie a Bowline in 6 Easy Steps

Few skills serve Kiwi outdoor lovers better than knowing how to tie a reliable knot. Whether you’re rigging a tent on a windswept beach, securing a boat at the local marina, or lashing down a load before heading into the bush, the bowline knot is the trusted classic that simply gets the job done. Renowned as the “King of Knots”, the bowline creates a strong, fixed loop that won’t slip under tension, yet can be released in seconds—even after heavy use. It’s this blend of strength and simplicity that’s made the bowline a mainstay for generations of New Zealand boaties, fishers, campers and tradies alike.

The secret to mastering the bowline lies in its straightforward technique: a loop at the end of your rope, ready for mooring, tying off to a post, or forming a rescue harness in a pinch. With just a few tried-and-true steps, you’ll have a knot that’s both easy to learn and quick to deploy, no matter your experience level. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to tie a perfect bowline—from rope selection and safety checks, to step-by-step instructions with clear visuals and practical tips for every scenario. Whether you’re just getting started or want to refine your knot-tying for serious outdoor adventures, grab a rope and follow along. Annotated photos and an optional instructional video will ensure each step is crystal clear, so you can practise confidently and safely.

Ready to add this essential skill to your toolkit? Let’s break the bowline down into six simple steps and set you up for success on your next outing.

Step 1: Understand the Bowline Knot and Its Purpose

The bowline is prized for forming a secure, fixed loop at a rope’s end. It won’t slip under constant tension yet loosens effortlessly once unloaded. Mariners, climbers and campers have relied on this knot for centuries because it balances strength with simplicity—qualities that earned it the nickname “King of Knots”.

(Insert labelled diagram of a loaded bowline here)

In Aotearoa New Zealand, you’ll find the bowline on fishing vessels, at campsites and even in rescue training. Its versatility makes it ideal for mooring, tying around poles or forming a makeshift harness. Before you grab your rope, take a moment to appreciate just what this knot offers—and why it’s stood the test of time.

Why the Bowline Is Called the “King of Knots”

The bowline sits at the top of many knot charts thanks to four key attributes:

• Reliability: It holds fast under load without jamming.
• Simplicity: The tying process follows a straightforward path, making it easy to teach.
• Security: Once set, it resists slipping even in wet or stiff rope.
• Easy untying: A quick tug frees the knot, even after heavy strain.

Compared with other common loops—like the figure-8 or the alpine butterfly—the bowline is quicker to tie and untie, especially when the rope is wet or icy. While those alternatives have their place, you’ll often reach for a bowline first because it strikes such a useful balance.

Key Outdoor and Marine Uses in New Zealand

Across our coastlines and backcountry, you’ll spot bowlines in action:

• Mooring small boats to cleats and posts in harbours.
• Securing tent guy lines and tarpaulins against sudden gusts.
• Lifting or lowering gear from cliff edges or campsite ridges.
• Forming a swift rescue loop—though only in non-life-critical drills, since a caught loop can slip under shock loads.

Whether it’s tying off to a beachside anchor or hauling firewood up a ravine, the bowline remains a Kiwi favourite for everyday and emergency scenarios alike.

Popular Rhyme for Learning the Bowline

A simple rhyme makes the bowline almost child’s play:
“Up through the rabbit hole, round the tree,
Down the hole and off goes he.”

Picture the short end of the rope as a rabbit. It emerges through a loop, circles the “tree” (the standing line) and scampers back down its original hole. We’ll revisit this mnemonic in Step 4 to cement the sequence in your muscle memory.

Step 2: Choose the Right Rope for Your Bowline

Selecting an appropriate rope ensures your bowline holds fast when it counts. The knot’s performance—ease of tying, grip under load and durability—depends heavily on the rope’s material, diameter and condition. Whether you’re mooring a dinghy, tensioning a tent fly or hauling gear, picking the right line is crucial for safety and longevity.

Synthetic Fibre vs Natural Fibre Ropes

Synthetic ropes dominate modern outdoor use thanks to their strength, handling and resistance to rot. Common options include:

• Nylon: Highly elastic and shock-absorbing, ideal for camping guy lines where wind loads fluctuate.
• Polyester: Low stretch, excellent UV and abrasion resistance—favoured for marine mooring lines.
• Polypropylene: Lightweight and floats, though less resistant to UV and abrasion.

Natural fibres like manila offer good grip and an authentic feel, but they suffer from moisture absorption, rot and reduced strength in wet conditions. For most New Zealand boating and camping tasks, synthetic lines outpace natural alternatives in both safety and lifespan.

Recommended Rope Diameter and Material for Common Tasks

Choosing the right diameter balances knotability with breaking strength. As a general guide, ropes in the 6–10 mm range cover most recreational and trade uses:

These sizes feed easily through cleats, pulleys and webbing hardware without compromising grip or knot security. Always err on the side of slightly larger rope if you expect heavy loads or rough conditions.

Rope Strength vs Knot Efficiency

Every knot reduces a rope’s breaking strength. According to Australian standard AS/NZS 4143.2-1993, a bowline typically retains between 40% and 80% of the rope’s original tensile strength once tied. Laboratory tests in the paper “Revision of Commonly Used Loop Knots Efficiencies” confirm this range varies with rope type and diameter.

Keeping knot efficiency in mind means selecting a rope rated well above the working load you anticipate. For critical marine or industrial tasks, factor in a healthy safety margin—often four to five times the expected load—to account for dynamic stresses and wear over time.

Step 3: Inspect Your Rope Before Tying

Before you start tying any knot, it pays to give your rope a thorough once-over. Tiny nicks, frayed fibres or sun-bleached sections can all compromise the strength of your bowline. A rope that looks sound at a glance might hide internal damage that reduces its breaking load—or worse, causes sudden failure when you least expect it. By making inspection part of your routine, you’ll keep yourself and your gear safe on the water, in the bush or on the worksite.

Taking a few minutes to check condition and integrity not only extends the life of your rope but also upholds best practice standards for recreational and commercial use. New Zealand’s maritime safety authority emphasises the importance of regular gear checks before each outing. Remember, a reliable knot is only as good as the rope it’s tied in.

Why Regular Rope Inspection Is Vital

Even high-quality synthetic lines degrade over time. UV rays, saltwater, chemicals and abrasion all contribute to fibre fatigue and unseen weakening. Following Maritime NZ’s advice to check your gear ensures you spot early signs of wear or damage. Regular inspections:

• Prevent accidents caused by rope failure under load.
• Identify issues before they worsen, saving you from costly replacements.
• Maintain confidence that your bowline—and any other knot—will perform when called upon.

Pre-Tie Inspection Checklist

Use this quick checklist each time you handle your rope. Walk your hands along the entire length, looking and feeling for any of these warning signs:

If anything seems off—whether that’s an odd stiff segment or loose fibres poking out—mark the area and decide whether the rope is fit for purpose.

What to Do If Your Rope Fails Inspection

When inspection reveals significant wear or hidden damage, it’s time to retire that rope for safety-critical tasks. Rather than tossing it straight into landfill, consider:

• Repurposing for non-load-bearing uses, such as padding, fender lines or garden twine.
• Cutting away only the damaged section, if the remainder still meets strength requirements.
• Proper disposal in accordance with local recycling or waste guidelines.

Never tie a bowline in a rope you suspect is under‐strength. A little extra caution now can prevent a lot of trouble later.

Step 4: Form the Initial Loop (‘Rabbit Hole’)

Before any wrapping or threading, you’ll start by making a simple overhand loop—or as the rhyme calls it, the “rabbit hole.” This loop sets the stage for the rest of the bowline and determines your final loop size. Take a moment to get this shape right; a neat, twist-free loop makes the knot easier to tie and more secure under load.

Positioning the Rope for the Loop

Hold the standing part of the rope in your non-dominant hand, letting the working end (the “rabbit”) hang freely. Your grip should allow you to control the standing line’s tension without squeezing too tightly. Make sure there’s at least three to four times the diameter of the rope left as tail beyond your intended loop size—this extra length ensures you can complete the knot and add a stopper if needed.

Making the Loop to Match Desired Loop Size

Form the loop by crossing the working end over the standing line. Adjust its diameter to suit your task: a smaller loop works best for cleats and ring posts, while a larger opening fits poles or posts. If you’re unsure how big to go, wrap a length of tape or a marker around the rope at the point where the loop should finish—this gives you a clear visual target as you tie.

Visual Tips for a Clean First Loop

A smooth first loop is free of twists or kinks. Keep the rope lying flat against your palm and the back of your hand. If you’re taking photos or making an instructional video, choose a contrasting background—say grey rope on a blue tarp or vice versa—so the loop’s shape stands out. A clean loop not only looks professional but also slips through the knot easily, making the subsequent steps more straightforward.

Step 5: Pass the Working End Through the Loop and Around the Standing Line

With your initial loop in place, it’s time to bring the working end (the “rabbit”) up through that rabbit hole and around the standing line (the “tree”). This motion sets the bowline’s characteristic shape and locks your loop in position. Take it slowly: each pass determines the knot’s security and ease of untying later.

First, focus on the path of the working end. You’ll lift it from beneath the loop and guide it upwards, emerging on top. Next, sweep that same end behind the straight portion of rope you’re holding—this is the trunk of the tree in our rhyme. Once the tail has circled the standing line, you’re ready for the final pass back through the rabbit hole in Step 6. Keeping these movements deliberate and tidy prevents twists and ensures the knot will seat correctly under load.

Threading the Tail Up Through the Loop

To start, pinch the loop’s lower edge with one hand and use the other to lift the working end from underneath. Feed it up through the loop so it now sits on top. Picture the rabbit popping its head out of its burrow—this is the “Up through the rabbit hole” part of the mnemonic. Make sure the tail exits cleanly, without catching on any stray fibres or twists.

Wrapping Around the Standing Line (‘Around the Tree’)

With the tail above the loop, swing it behind the standing line. The working end should lie snug against the back of the main rope, parallel to the loop. This wrap imitates the rabbit circling the sturdy tree trunk. Keep the wrap tight but not pinched; you want enough slack to complete the final tuck without slipping.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

• Reversing the loop direction: check that the tail comes up from underneath, not over the top of the loop.
• Twisted wraps: ensure the working end lies flat against the standing line—twists here can jam the knot.
• Insufficient tail length: leave at least three times the rope’s diameter beyond the loop to avoid running out of rope when tightening.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll prepare the bowline for its final tuck and create a reliable loop that holds firm under tension yet releases smoothly when needed.

Step 6: Thread the Working End Back Through the Loop and Tighten

By now you have the rabbit peeking out of its hole and scampering around the tree. The final move is to send it back down the same rabbit hole so the loop locks in place. Seat the knot properly to ensure it holds under load yet remains easy to release when the tension is off. A neatly seated bowline is your guarantee of security out on the water or in camp.

Completing the Bowline: ‘Down the Hole’ Instruction

Feed the working end back through the loop from the top, directing it down the original opening. Imagine the rabbit diving back into its burrow—this “Down the hole” action forms the finishing tuck of the bowline. Before tightening, check that the tail follows the path you set earlier, with no stray wraps or fibre crossings. If you plan to connect this loop to hardware—like stainless steel bow shackles—ensure the knot seats cleanly to avoid slippage.
(Insert before/after photos here to compare a loose tuck versus a correctly threaded one.)

How to Tighten Without Creating Twists

Grip both the standing line and the tail, then pull them evenly to snug the knot. Avoid jerky pulls that can introduce twists or pinch the strands. As you draw the rope taut, make sure the knot’s collars—the sections where the loop meets the standing line—sit side by side in smooth, parallel lines. This neat arrangement helps the bowline resist slipping and prevents hard-to-untie hitches after heavy loads.

Adding a Safety Stopper (Optional)

For extra peace of mind, add a half hitch or a double overhand stopper on the working end, snug against the knot’s collar. This simple add-on catches any tail slippage, especially useful when the bowline sees repeated loading and unloading. Climbers might prefer a Yosemite finish—passing the tail around the loop edge and back under itself—which secures the knot further. To bolster your setup when hauling or tying down gear, consider pairing your bowline with heavy-duty tie-down straps for an extra margin of safety. Feel free to experiment with these variations to match your activity’s demands.

Step 7: Test Your Bowline Knot for Security

Before trusting your bowline in real conditions, give it a proper trial. Testing ensures the knot is seated correctly and will hold under the loads you expect at the marina, campsite or worksite. A quick check now can save you hassle—or worse—when you need your loop to stay put.

Visual Inspection of the Finished Knot

Begin by examining the finished bowline. The two collars—where the loop meets the standing line—should lie flat, side by side, with no twisted or pinched strands. Look for smooth turns around the standing part and confirm the tail follows the correct path. Any unevenness or crossed fibres is a sign to untie and reseat the knot before loading it.

Load-Testing the Knot Safely

Next, apply tension gradually. Secure the standing line to a fixed point—such as a cleat, anchor post or sturdy tree—and pull the loop as you would in use. If you’re mooring a small boat, haul on the bowline as though you’re tightening the mooring line. On land, have a partner pull or use a ratchet strap attached to your loop. Increase the load slowly, watching for any movement of the knot. A correctly tied bowline will hold firm with no slippage or hissing sounds from shifting fibres.

Correcting and Retying if Necessary

Should you see the loop tighten, collars shift or strands bunch up, stop immediately. Untie the knot, smooth out any kinks and tie the bowline again, paying close attention to each step. Repeat the visual inspection and load-test until the knot remains rock solid under tension. With a little practice, you’ll gain confidence in your bowline—and trust that it’s ready for whatever your next adventure throws at it.

Step 8: Untie the Bowline and Evaluate Knot Efficiency

Once your task is done, it’s time to release the bowline and assess how both knot and rope performed. A careful untying technique preserves the integrity of the fibres, and a quick evaluation helps you understand any strength loss before your next outing. Follow these guidelines to undo a loaded bowline safely, gauge knot efficiency and care for your rope afterward.

Untying the Bowline After Loading

First, remove any load from the knot. If the standing line is still fixed to a cleat, ring or piece of gear, free it and lay the rope on a flat surface. Pinch the knot’s collar where the loop meets the standing part, then push the tail back down through the original loop—the “rabbit diving back into its hole.” You may need to jiggle the collar gently to loosen the tuck. Always untie only when the rope is slack; trying to undo a bowline under tension can pinch fibres or make the knot dangerously tight.

Assessing Rope Strength Loss and Knot Efficiency

Every knot reduces a rope’s breaking strength. Laboratory tests and the Australian standard AS/NZS 4143.2-1993 report that a bowline retains around 40–80% of the rope’s original tensile strength once tied. To get a feel for your line, grip it firmly and apply gradual force—looking out for any unexpected stretch, spongy spots or sudden give. If the rope shows signs of internal damage or excessive elongation, retire it from safety-critical tasks and replace it with a fresh line.

Caring for Your Rope After Untying

With the knot undone and inspection complete, rinse your rope in fresh water to wash away salt, sand or chemicals. Lay it out of direct sunlight to air dry—UV rays can weaken fibres over time. Once dry, coil the rope neatly using a gentle figure-eight or butterfly method to avoid kinks, then store it in a cool, dry place away from harsh chemicals and prolonged sun exposure. Proper post-use care ensures your rope—and the next bowline you tie—remains dependable whenever you head out.

Step 9: Explore Advanced Bowline Variations

While the standard bowline covers the majority of tasks, certain situations demand tweaks for extra security, speed or adaptability. These variations build on the same “rabbit and tree” concept but alter the path or number of wraps to suit climbing anchors, one‐handed emergencies or mid‐line loops. Adding them to your knot‐tying toolset means you can tackle more specialised challenges without reaching for extra hardware.

Double Bowline for Increased Security

The double bowline boosts the knot’s holding power with an extra turn around the standing line. After forming your initial loop, pass the working end up through the “rabbit hole” once, then wrap it a second time around the standing part before feeding it back down the loop. This additional wrap tightens the collar, reducing the chance of slippage under repeated loading.

Climbing instructors and riggers often prefer the double bowline when using softer or slippery ropes. It still unties easily once unloaded, but the firmer grip makes it suitable for anchors, hauling systems and any application where knot creep could be dangerous.

One‐Handed Bowline for Emergency Situations

The one‐handed bowline lets you tie a secure loop even if you can’t use both hands. Drape the rope behind your back or over a fixed object, grip the standing line in your hand, then hook the working end with your thumb to form the loop. Twist your wrist to bring the tail around the standing part and back through the loop—mirroring the standard sequence in a single fluid motion.

This variation is a lifeline on a rocking boat or if you’ve injured one arm. With practise, you’ll be able to form a dependable loop quickly under stress, making it a staple knot for search-and-rescue teams and solo adventurers alike.

Bowline on a Bight and Running Bowline

The bowline on a bight creates a fixed loop in the middle of a rope, ideal for hoisting gear or sharing a load between two attachment points. Simply fold a bight (a doubled section of rope) into your hand, form a loop in the doubled rope, and tie a bowline around that loop. You end up with two parallel loops, each bearing half the load without needing access to the rope’s ends.

The running bowline, on the other hand, functions as a noose that tightens under cross‐pull. Tie a normal bowline but leave the loop open; when you slide the knot over an object and pull on the standing line, the loop cinches snugly. This version excels at rescue hauls, animal handling or any scenario where you need a self-adjusting loop that won’t come undone until you release the standing end.

Step 10: Maintain Your Knots and Ropes for Long-Term Reliability

Even the best knot and highest-quality rope can degrade if they’re not stored and handled properly. By integrating regular maintenance into your routine, you’ll extend the life of your lines and ensure every bowline you tie remains as dependable as the first. Below are a few strategies to keep both knot and rope in top condition for years of outdoor, marine and industrial use.

Best Practices for Rope Storage and Handling

Proper storage starts with a clean, well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight. UV radiation breaks down most synthetic fibres over time, so stowing ropes in opaque bins or canvas bags shields them from harmful rays. Keep ropes clear of chemicals—paints, solvents and fuels can weaken or stain fibres irreversibly.

When coiling, opt for a figure-eight or butterfly coil rather than a simple circular wrap. These methods prevent twists, kinks and stress points, making the rope easier to deploy and reducing wear:

• Figure-eight coil: Lay out the rope and shift alternating loops across your hand or forearm.
• Butterfly coil: Form loops in an “8” pattern in your hand, then secure the centre with a short sling or Velcro tie.

Store coiled ropes loosely; avoid compression beneath heavy objects, which can deform strands and compromise strength.

Scheduling Regular Maintenance and Logs

A rope log helps track usage, inspections and retirements. Whether you jot dates in a notebook or maintain a digital spreadsheet, record:

• Date and duration of use
• Environmental conditions (saltwater exposure, cold climate, abrasive surfaces)
• Inspection findings (abrasion spots, discolouration, core softness)
• Any corrective actions taken (trimmed ends, retired sections)

Refer back to this log before heavy-duty tasks or at the start of each season. Over time, you’ll spot patterns—perhaps a certain stretch of line needs more frequent retirement, or an activity stresses a particular diameter. This awareness guides safer rope selection and budgeting for replacements.

Integrating Rope Checks Into Pre-Departure Gear List

Make rope inspection as routine as checking your fuel gauge or packing lifejackets. Build a simple checklist for every trip:

• Visual sweep of each rope for fraying or UV damage
• Hand-feel test for stiffness or soft spots
• Confirmation of correct coiling and stowage method
• Verification of tail length in pre-tied bowlines or stored loose ends

Tuck this checklist into your boating, camping or industrial pre-departure plan. By taking a minute to run through these items alongside engine checks or food packs, you’ll catch potential issues on the dock or at camp rather than mid-adventure.

Consistent care and proactive inspections turn a quick bowline into a reliable workhorse. With well-maintained ropes and sharp knots at your fingertips, you can focus on the task at hand—whether it’s landing that snapper, pitching a tent or rigging a lifting system—with confidence and peace of mind.

What’s Next for Your Knot-Tying Skills

You’ve now mastered the bowline and explored its many forms—from the trusty standard loop to one-handed and double-wrapped alternatives. The next step is simple: practise until your hands go on autopilot. Tie bowlines at home, on the lawn, or even around everyday objects like chairs and fence posts. Each repetition builds muscle memory, making the sequence—rabbit hole, around the tree, back down—second nature.

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, challenge yourself by testing your bowline under different conditions. Try using wet rope after a rain shower, switch to an icy synthetic line in the cooler months, or form larger loops for pole-to-pole lashings. These small experiments reveal how factors like moisture, rope diameter and load type affect knot security. And if you’re curious about other essential skills, consider moving on to related knots—such as the figure-eight or alpine butterfly—to round out your toolkit.

Finally, keep your gear in top shape and your knowledge fresh. Bookmark our site and revisit Action Outdoors whenever you need expert advice or to stock up on premium ropes and hardware. By combining regular practice, gear checks and a willingness to explore new variations, your knot-tying proficiency will stay sharp long after today’s session. Here’s to safer, more confident adventures—one bowline at a time.