On a small boat, which knot is best suited for attaching a line to the ring of an anchor?

The fisherman's bend is particularly effective for attaching a line to the ring of an anchor due to its design, which provides a strong and secure hold. This knot creates a reliable connection that can withstand the forces exerted when the anchor is in use, especially when it is pulling or moving under strain. The knot's structure allows it to grip both the anchor ring and the line tightly, preventing slippage even in challenging conditions.

While other knots have their own applications, they may not offer the same level of security in this specific scenario. For instance, the clove hitch, while useful for tying to poles or rings, isn't specifically designed to handle the load placed on an anchor line and can slip if not under constant tension. The figure-eight knot primarily serves as a stopper knot to prevent lines from slipping through, which is not its intended use for anchoring. The overhand knot is simple but lacks the strength and security required for anchoring, making it less desirable.

The fisherman's bend is thus selected for its reliability and strength in creating a secure connection between the anchor ring and the line.