Though the fisherman's knot is associated with fishing, it can slip when tied in nylon monofilament and other slippery lines;[1] however, if more holding strength is required, the overhand knots can be made with more turns, as in the double fisherman's knot, and so on.

It is compact, jamming when tightened and the working ends can be cropped very close to the knot.

It can also be easily tied with cold, wet hands.

In knitting, the knot is used to join two strands of yarn.

In this context, it is commonly known as "the magic knot".