Repairing a Damaged Fishing Net: The Double Fisherman's Knot Method

Updated at: 15/05/2025

Fishing nets, vital tools for any angler, are susceptible to damage from sharp rocks, strong currents, and the very fish they're designed to catch. A torn net can mean lost catches and wasted effort, but thankfully, many repairs can be accomplished quickly and effectively with the right knotting techniques. A strong, reliable repair is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your net and ensuring continued success on the water. Knowing how to mend your gear efficiently can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

The most common and arguably strongest repair method for fishing nets involves the trusty double fisherman's knot. This simple yet robust knot is perfect for joining two broken ends of netting swiftly and securely. For a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to master this essential skill and effectively repair your damaged fishing net using the double fisherman's knot method, read on!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed

String
Clamps

Safety Guidelines

Always work in a well-lit area to ensure you see the details of the knots and prevent accidental injuries.
Use sharp, clean scissors or a knife to trim excess line, avoiding accidental cuts.
If the net damage is extensive or beyond your repair skills, consider seeking professional help or replacing the net to ensure its continued safety and efficacy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Damaged Area
- Cut away the damaged access around the hole down to the knot.
Prepare the Damaged Area
Attach First Knot
- Apply string using a double fisherman's knot to one side of the damaged area.
- Clamp the string tightly on the outside of each side of the damaged area.
Attach First Knot
Attach Second Knot
- Apply a double fisherman's knot to the other side while the clamps are still loose, ensuring the knot is tight before releasing the clamps.
Attach Second Knot
Secure and Finish
- Release the clamps. The repair should be secure and even.
- Trim the excess string close to the knots.
Secure and Finish

Tips

Make sure the double fisherman's knot is tight before releasing the clamps to prevent the repair from spreading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly sized loops

Reason: Creating loops of significantly different sizes makes the knot weak and prone to slipping.

Solution: Ensure both loops are as close to the same size as possible before tightening.

2. Insufficient tightening

Reason: A loosely tied knot will easily come undone under stress, compromising the repair.

Solution: Tighten the knot firmly and consistently, making sure it's snug against the net material.

3. Incorrect crossing of the lines

Reason: Improperly crossing the lines during the knot formation leads to an unstable and unreliable repair.

Solution: Carefully follow the steps of the Double Fisherman's Knot, ensuring the lines are crossed correctly at each stage.

FAQs

What type of fishing line is best for repairing my net?

Ideally, use the same type of line your net is made from. If that's not possible, choose a strong, similar gauge line that's resistant to UV degradation and saltwater. Monofilament or braided lines are common choices.

How tight should I pull the knot after tying it?

Pull the knot firmly until it's snug but avoid over-tightening. Over-tightening can damage the line or cause it to break. A good knot will be secure without excessive tension.

My net has a large hole – is the double fisherman's knot still suitable?

For large holes, you might need to use several double fisherman's knots in a series, or consider a different repair technique depending on the extent of the damage. For small tears and breaks, the double fisherman's knot is excellent.

Knowing how to mend a net is a valuable skill, whether you're repairing a fishing net, as we'll discuss with the double fisherman's knot method below, or even maintaining a more sophisticated piece of equipment like a portable practice net. If you're interested in improving your baseball practice setup, you might find our guide on the helpful. The principles of strong, reliable knotting are equally important regardless of the net's purpose.