One thing you’d be hard pressed to avoid in angling is the subject of knots. It would be very difficult to land a fish without one, at least!
Lindsey Philpott is the President and co-founder of the Pacific Americas Branch of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, so I think we can assume that he knows a thing or two about knots.
Knots – A Complete Guide takes the reader through 110 of the most commonly needed knots in sailing, climbing, camping & outdoor pursuits, fishing and general purpose scenarios. There are also decorative knots included.
Each knot is shown step-by-step, with extremely clear pictures (in rope form, so they’re easy to follow!) and, of course, expert guidance. Information boxes also provide ‘Tips’ and ‘Common Uses’. These boxes actually prove very useful – the ‘Common Uses’ box may seem obvious to the casual observer, but knowing which knot to use when is a major part of knot tying and probably one that some of us overlook, preferring our own favoured knots. The ‘Tips’ box is even more useful, as it often tells the reader how to make the knot as strong as possible and when not to use a particular knot.
The introduction also gives us a brief history of knot tying, as well as guidelines on many different types of ropes and cordage. Importantly, it also gives instruction on rope maintenance and care, something the boat angling fraternity will enjoy reading.
I’d have to be honest and say that if you want knots for fishing lines only, then there will be more suitable books available. However, if your interest extends to boats and beyond, then this book would prove to be a very wise purchase. One things for sure, if you do buy this book, you’ll find yourself able to tackle a lot more situations. Even jobs in the garden will become easier!
Knots – A Complete Guide is published in hardback by New Holland Publishers, ISBN 1-84330-455-4, and should be available from 25th January, 2005 at a RRP of £17.99. It can be purchased from Amazon.co.uk by clicking here.
Elton Murphy – January, 2005
