Attaching Your Tether

The tether is used to secure your saddle to the tree once you have reached your desired hunting height and hunting position. You MUST secure your tether to the tree after you have finished climbing and before you step onto the platform to keep you safe as you move around the tree and hunt.

While you climb, you do not have to have your tether attached to your saddle since you are using your lineman belt to secure you to the tree. You can attach your tether to your saddle for storage or place it in a storage pocket on your saddle or pack if you have one.

To attach the tether to your saddle and the tree you have climbed, ensure that you are still supported by your lineman belt until all steps for attaching your tether are completed.

1. Start by wrapping the end of the tether that has a loop around the tree trunk at forehead height.
2. Pass the free end of the rope with a prusik knot and carabiner through the loop in front of you.
3. Pull the rope to tighten the tether against the tree. This construction is referred to as a girth hitch or a lark’s head knot.
4. Attach the carabiner to your bridge. Make sure to secure the crew gate on the carabiner.
5. Adjust the prusik knot so that your tether is taut and holding your weight.
6. Once the saddle and tether are holding your body weight, you can unhook the lineman belt carefully and store within reach for when you begin your descent after hunting.
7. You can then adjust your tether height around the tree for comfort while you hunt. NEVER climb above the loop and girth hitch to hunt; this will create slack in your tether and increase your risk of fall or injury.