About
NetKnots is a comprehensive, long-standing knot-tying reference platform that has served outdoor enthusiasts, fishermen, scouts, sailors, and survival preppers since 1993. The site features over 180 animated and step-by-step illustrated knot tutorials organized into intuitive categories such as fishing knots (line-to-line, terminal tackle, fly fishing, Tenkara, saltwater), rope knots (hitches, bends, loops, binding knots), and specialty knots for arborists, climbers, boaters, and search-and-rescue professionals. Each knot comes with pauseable and rewindable animations alongside static illustrations, making it easy to follow along at your own pace while practicing. The site also extends beyond traditional outdoor knots with a fashion section covering necktie knots, scarf knots, and pocket square folds, as well as a fly-tying instruction video library featuring patterns from industry experts. NetKnots offers physical knot reference cards for purchase and companion mobile apps for on-the-go access. A blog provides additional tips, updates, and outdoor advice. The platform is suitable for beginners learning their first knots, experienced outdoor adventurers seeking reference guides, educators teaching scouts or survival skills, and anyone who needs a reliable, well-organized knot library. Its combination of free online tutorials and supplemental paid products makes it a versatile resource for all skill levels.
Key Features
- Animated Knot Tutorials: Every knot includes a pauseable, rewindable animation so users can learn at their own pace while practicing in real time.
- 180+ Knot Library: An extensive collection covering fishing, rope, climbing, boating, arborist, scouting, survival, and fashion knots organized by category.
- Step-by-Step Illustrations: Clear static illustrations accompany each tutorial, providing a quick visual reference without needing to run an animation.
- Mobile Knot Apps: Companion iOS and Android apps allow users to access knot tutorials offline and on the go in the field.
- Fly Tying Video Section: Expert-led fly tying instruction videos covering a wide range of patterns across dry flies, nymphs, streamers, and more.
Use Cases
- A fisherman learning the right terminal tackle knot for their specific line and lure combination.
- A scout leader teaching troop members essential camping and rescue knots using animated visual guides.
- A sailor referencing reliable boating knots when rigging or securing lines on the water.
- A survivalist or prepper building a practical knot skill set for emergency preparedness situations.
- A fly fishing enthusiast learning new fly tying patterns through expert video instruction.
Pros
- Vast, Well-Organized Library: With 180+ knots sorted into clear categories, finding the right knot for a specific activity is fast and intuitive.
- Free Core Content: The full animated and illustrated knot tutorial library is freely accessible with no account or subscription required.
- Trusted & Established: Operating since 1993, NetKnots has a long track record of accuracy and reliability, making it a go-to reference in knot-tying communities.
Cons
- Not AI-Powered: The platform is a traditional reference site with no AI-driven personalization, search intelligence, or adaptive learning features.
- Dated Visual Design: The website's interface reflects its long history and may feel visually dated compared to modern learning platforms.
- Limited Interactivity: Beyond watching animations, there is no interactive practice mode, quizzes, or progress tracking to reinforce learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NetKnots free to use?
Yes, the core knot tutorial library — including all animations and illustrated guides — is free to access on the website. Physical knot cards and mobile apps are available as paid add-ons.
How many knots does NetKnots cover?
NetKnots features over 180 knots spanning fishing, rope, climbing, boating, arborist, survival, scouting, and fashion categories.
Does NetKnots have a mobile app?
Yes, NetKnots offers companion apps for iOS and Android devices so you can access knot tutorials offline and in the field.
Is NetKnots suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. NetKnots includes a dedicated beginner fishing knots section and organizes all content clearly so newcomers can start with simple knots and gradually learn more advanced ones.
Can NetKnots be used for rock climbing instruction?
NetKnots explicitly notes that its knot illustrations are not intended as rock climbing instruction. For climbing, seek professional instruction before relying on any knot resource.
