During 1995–2006 research projects in Florida and Kentucky, USA, we captured 191 (72 F∶119 M) American black bears (Ursus americanus) 251 times using modified Aldrich spring-activated snares. In our modification, the swivel at the base of the foot loop was attached to 2 cables that ran in opposite directions and were anchored to trees. Shortening the free cable to only the foot loop limited the area in which the captured animal could move and provided more options for snare placement. This smaller area reduced the distance that a captured bear could run when attempting to charge or flee, which made immobilization easier. This modification also prevented the bear from climbing or reaching the anchor trees. Using this modification also increased available trap sites by allowing use of trees that would have been inadequate as a single anchor because of low branches, forked or leaning trunks, proximity to hazards, or small size. We believe this alternative anchor method is an improvement, particularly for snares set on trails, because they often require longer anchor cables to reach the desired location. This anchor method should work with any snare trigger and for any species that is trapped using an anchored foot snare.