Abstract: A portable tow device (20) for selective attachment to a tow line (24) having a length includes a handle (32). The tow device also includes a locking member (28) rotatably attached to the handle. The locking member includes first and second bearing members (28a) and (28b) and an elongate slot (42). The tow device further includes a lever arm (30) attached to the locking member for selectively rotating the locking member between a locked position, wherein the tow line is clamped between the first and second bearing members for propelling a person along a surface at a rate substantially equal to the rate of the tow line, and an unlocked position, wherein the tow line passes freely through the tow device.