A holder for retaining a hunting bow and an arrow in the ready position is described. The holder is fastened to a strap which in turn is placed over the shoulder of the hunter or to a support, thereby permitting the hunter to release the bow and warm his hands, eat, drink or rest. The bow and arrow holder of the present invention can be quickly released, thereby permitting the hunter to shoot. The holder includes a pair of pivotable plates which lock against the arrow under pressure exerted by the bow string.