Assembling Your Climbing System

After putting on your saddle and lineman belt, and preparing your tether, you will also need to prepare your climbing sticks, platform, and other accessories for the climb.

• Depending on your desired hunting height, you will need three or four climbing sticks as your climbing aid. This equipment can be stacked together to attach to your saddle or carried in a pack. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage capabilities.
• Your hunting platform will need to be carried up the tree as well. You can do this either by attaching the platform with rope to your saddle, or you can store it in a backpack for a more secure carry.
• If you are storing your tether and any other gear in a saddle pocket or bag, prepare these items in the right place for access later.
• Make sure to attach a haul line to your sporting arm and place it where it is accessible on the ground for hauling once you’ve completed your climb. NEVER haul a loaded sporting arm. Make sure that any ammunition you have is stored separately for your ascent.
  • If using a firearm, attach the haul line to the firearm’s sling so that the firearm hangs with the muzzle pointed down.
  • If using a bow, attach the haul line so that the arrow fletching points down when raising your equipment and points up when lowering it.