Archive for the ‘Tree Stands’ Category
Tree Stand Preparation
Deer Hunting: Preparing For Tree Stands
Preparing areas for a tree stand to be used for deer hunting takes time. In most cases, whenever possible, this should be done several months prior to the season.
Entry And Exit Routes
It is important to have simple and clearly marked entry and exit routes to the stand area. These routes should be cleared of anything that may cause noise or create problems when walking through.
The path should be marked with easy to follow tacks, tape, or ties that reflect light during darkness. Doing so even on easy access areas will prevent locating problems.
When encountering a turn, place more than one marker. This will remind the hunter to adjust accordingly.
Place markers close enough to be easily found all the way to, and including the actual stand tree. This will reduce searching in the dark.
Shooting Lanes
The first step in preparing shooting lanes is distance. After determining most likely deer travel routes, make notes of the distances by walking them off or by using a range finder.
Begin at the point of impact and clear away any limbs, saplings, thick grass, or other objects that may deflect a shot. At the very least, allow enough open space that is the size of one whole deer in length.
Saplings that need to be completely removed should be cut to ground level. Saplings that can be adjusted can be cut partial way through and allowed to lean over.
Stand Tree
Work your way back to the stand tree. Make sure to climb the tree for a better visual and remove anything remaining on the ground that may cause issues.
In preparing the actual stand tree, clear away any debris at ground level that may hang on equipment.
If using steps, make sure to place them short distances apart to allow for easy climbing.
While climbing the tree, remove any limbs, vines, or bark that may cause problems.
After hanging the stand, climb on, sit and stand up to make sure there is not anything else that needs attention.
Remember to use good scent control tactics and always use proper safety equipment.
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When To Relocate Tree Stands
Locating deer sign and placing a tree stand nearby for hunting is a technique often used by deer hunters. The key to success is being in the most active area during daylight hours. Another is knowing when to move the stand to a new location.
When To Move: The Three Hunt Rule
I generally stick to a three hunt rule. By this I mean that I will hunt a certain set up only three consecutive times in a row. Start with an evening hunt, followed by a morning hunt, then another evening hunt.
On occasion I may use a variation of this rule such as morning, evening, morning or three evenings or three morning hunts. But never more than three hunts from the same stand location. If no success, relocate to a different area.
Why Move?
I have always been more successful when using these tactics. My thoughts are that it keeps the hunting areas fresh and reduces the chances of being detected by the deer. The least amount of pressure is applied in the area. The deer are rarely alerted or spooked. This also prevents being patterned by the deer.
Another reason is that this technique offers the ability to cover more land. Even if the sign is in an area, the deer may be only using it under the cover of darkness. Moving will allow the chance to get closer to the deer during daylight hours.
Give It A Try
Give these deer hunting tips a try and see if they work in your area. I know that they have been very helpful in bringing success to this hunter for the past twenty years or so. Remember that you can always move back to previously hunted areas if the situations dictate. Good luck and be safe.
Related: Deer Hunting Tips
Limit Deer Stand Hunting
Deer Hunting Tips – Tree stands are a very valuable tool when it comes to deer hunting. They provide the hunter with the ability to rise above both the sight levels and smell levels of deer. This reduces the chances of being detected by the deer.
The key to successful tree stand use is limiting how often the stand is used in any given deer hunting area. Over use will counteract the many advantages that they provide. It is better to hunt sparingly as opposed to hunting the same spot repeatedly.
Constant hunting of the same area will add pressure and alarm the deer. Instead, locate a variety of stand set up locations and switch from one place to another. This limits pressure and keeps the deer less alarmed.
Depending upon the size of the property, simply moving a few hundred yards away can make all the difference. In preparation, several different stands can be used or only one stand that is moved to each location.
If using the rotating single tree stand technique, simply prepare each individual area for the set up. This includes any trimmings that may be needed. That way when the time comes to move, the transition will be fairly simple.
How often one rotates depend mainly upon deer movement. On average, after three straight days in one area it may be best to relocate. Sometimes moving every other day may be effective.
Once one set up is moved, give that area several days before returning. Remember that deer can and will pattern hunters. Staying away for awhile helps reduce this from occurring.
Use these deer hunting tips and see if they will improve your hunting results. Be safe and good luck.
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