i hunt in fixed tree stands also. i use a saftey harness. when climing down i do not use branches either( unless in a pine tree). i attach a longer rope to the front clamp of the climbing harness that is 6 feet shorter that the trip to the ground this will stop me if by chance i fall. soounds kinda stupid but i can tell you from experience it works well. when i get to the end of the rope i disconnect and let it hang there for the return trip up. then i wil stow for the hunt.

hunt on 25 days to go but whos counting