Tether

Add the tether to ensure you don't lose the rack in the river.  It is attached through the lower reel seat with a simple knot, has a pin to lock the DDS-1 to the mounting bracket, and attaches to your frame with the carabiner.  Ultimately there are 2 levels of security.  This is a must have in rough water or when you will be taking the rod off the mount frequently due to big "flippy" water, or overhead hazards.  It gives you the insurance that even if you do drop the rack in the water it's still attached to the boat.  With the pin in place, the rack can be left on the boat while driving to and from takeouts.