a ligating system having a ligating apparatus configured to attach to a distal end of a scope and to hold a ligating band thereon ; an activating cord configured to extend down a working channel of the scope and attach to the ligating apparatus ; and a line pulling assembly including : a central body ; an attachment mechanism on the central body configured to attach the line pulling assembly to a proximal end of the scope ; an access channel through the central body and in communication with the working channel of the scope , the access channel providing an open inlet to the working channel of the scope when the line pulling assembly is attached to the proximal end of the scope ; and a winding mechanism attached to the central body , wherein the winding mechanism is configured to pull the activating cord proximally such that the ligating band is removed from the ligating apparatus .