How To....Tree Hugger-Marlin-Spike-Toggle for Hammock Suspension

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Hammock suspension........truly important and several ways to do it. My preference for most of the year other than deep Winter is the Tree Hugger/Marlinspike Knot/Toggle Method that is used to connect a Whoopie Sling to a tree. Makes me feel like I am doing something and has little bulk. Fun to tie the knot...at least for me.
I do get asked about this over and over so thought it was time for a re-visit since the original is buried in my Hammock How-To Series from years ago.
This is just one option for a way to suspend your hammock and probobly the trickiest due to the knot and toggle. But I love this way....not sure why.

Hope this helps some of ya'll out some.
All secure in sector seven.
Shug

Shug and Jim pickin' "Wheel Hoss"

[stevesummersell_KWXX]

Rewatching this again in 2024 because it’s so good. Woo Buddy!

[markwthompson]

After watching your videos I've recently picked up singing while camping.  My wife and I just did a few multi-day trips on the AT and she asked, "What the heck are you doing?"  
"I'm singing.  Like Shug!  He's hilarious!"  
"He sure thinks he is", she responded flatly.

While she may not be impressed, I am.  Keep up the good work.

[ewanquainton]

I just bought a second hand modified hammock from an outdoors shop for a bargain with this system!
Didn’t have a clue how to install it, now I do! Thank you 🙏

[TacticalCannedHam]

It's been a few years since I used the Marlin-Spike hitch... such a simple thing, but I had to come back and watch again because the old brain just wouldn't pull it out of the archives! 👍 Thanks for everything you've taught us over the years Shug!

[Robjmar]

You have a knack of explaining things very great video

[CampfireTalk]

Yes sir, that's exactly how I do it. Learned from you years ago when you did your hammock & tarp series. All secure in sector 7!

[chuckbarker]

On the knot and not on the toggle. Thanks for the video. I have gone back to this multiple times to remember how to do the knot right.

[rls]

Thanks for the slow-mo for us Southern boys, lol  Great How-to, Thanks Shug

[HikingFeral]

Thanks for this mate, I know it's old but I'm only just starting to use whoopies and I always have way too much slack and a short hang. this way I can tie the marlin spike up to the post / tree 🌲

[matte-d]

I have a potentially stupid question... with the Marlin Spike and toggle you could hook your continuous loop from your hammock right on the knot (not the toggle!), no? Why bother with the whoopee sling then, and not just use webbing long enough for your hanging needs? Thanks for the videos Shug! They've helped out this noobie quite a bit.

[PureTazr]

Yes Sir Thank You Sir May I Have Another :) Great video and tips loved the slowmo.

[lilricky]

Just got back from an overnighter with friends, took out Dutch's new speedhook system. I'm convinced it will replace whoopie slings, saved myself 40 grams of weight and it can't be simpler.  Speed Hook

[nickdewald]

Your videos are informative, entertaining, and most important of all .. make me want to get outside. Thanks Shug!

[CaLebHillSmallMt]

Informative, entertaining and usefull. Thanks for making me smile which that last bit there.

[ivytarablair]

Thank you that solved a problem no one else's explanation was making clear to me! (on the KNOT, *not* on the TOGGLE lolol) This'll save me much aggravation!

[RallohE]

Anutter gud'n Shugrow ... Edu-ma-cation and a chuckle. Well done sire!

[TimothyShaw]

As I develop my hammock system I'm learning what works with my budget I'm starting with a Winner Outfitters hammock so I'm planning to keep the loops, get 2 12-foot straps, put the marlin spike hitch in the strap and hang the continuous loop to the hitch (not the toggle).

[bencoleman]

What are your toggles? Where do you get them and where can I get some?  Thank you for all your videos, I love them.

[Oldcoinsandstuff]

Shug, , you ever use tents? How did you discover hammocks ? What was your first experience with them that " turned you "???

[TacBlades]

Good timing i am just sorting it out for myself this morning for my first hang.

I think i am going to try a carabina as the toggle into a marlin spike hitch. Then slippery hitch after the MSH to be sure not to slip. I am using a knotted webbing like (think atlas strap) from my hammock so then just clip into the biner then adjustment and clip on is easy.

If it doesnt work i an just use the biner in the end of the webbing straps :)