The word "blood knot" is a term used in fishing that refers to a type of knot used to join two pieces of fishing line together. The phonetic transcription of this word in IPA is /blʌd nɑt/. The spelling of "blood" comes from the Middle English word "blod," meaning "blood," which can be traced back to the Old English word "blōd." The spelling of "knot" comes from the Old English word "cnotta," which means "knot" or "tie." Together, the words form the compound word "blood knot."
A blood knot is a type of knot that is used to join two fishing lines of equal diameter together. It is also known as a double surgeon's knot and is commonly used in fishing and angling activities for connecting monofilament lines and leaders. The blood knot is a strong and reliable knot that ensures a secure connection between the lines, reducing the risk of breakage when a fish is hooked or put under tension.
To tie a blood knot, the two lines are overlapped, with each end forming opposite-facing loops. The ends are then wrapped around each other a specific number of times, typically around five to seven turns, depending on the diameter of the lines. After the wraps are completed, the ends are threaded through the loops and pulled tight to form the blood knot. The knot can be further secured by applying a little moisture or saliva to lubricate the lines before tightening.
The blood knot is favored by anglers due to its strength and reliability, allowing for smooth casting and effective retrieval. It is particularly useful for joining lines of similar diameter, as it creates a streamlined connection that can pass freely through rod guides. However, it may be less appropriate for lines of significantly different diameters, as it could result in an uneven connection that may hinder the casting and retrieval process.
The term "blood knot" has two possible etymologies, depending on the context in which it is used.
1. Fishing: In the context of fishing, a "blood knot" is a type of knot used to join two fishing lines together. The origin of the term in this context is unclear, but it is believed to have been derived from the idea that the knot creates a strong, secure, and "bloody" tight connection between the two lines, as if the bond between them was made of blood. The term "blood knot" has been used in fishing literature since at least the late 19th century.
2. Surgical: In the context of surgery or medicine, a "blood knot" refers to a technique used to tie off blood vessels or to ligate blood vessels during surgery.