When it comes to hunting, the method you choose can make or break your success. While some hunters prefer the stand and stalk method, others find tree stands to be more helpful. When it comes to deer hunting and tree stands, there are some important things to know.
What is a tree stand?
A tree stand is an open or closed platform hunters use to camouflage themselves. They are often secured to trees to give hunters a better vantage point. Some are placed in trees or against trees as well.
Different types of tree stands
Tree stands usually come in three variations; fixed position, climbers, and ladders. Let’s take a look at each one so that you can better choose the one that’s best suited for your hunting style.
Ladders
If you’re thinking of a ladder tree stand, be prepared to spend plenty of time constructing it. They’re heavy and bulky, so your best bet is to build one and leave it there for a while. Once you get it up, these types of tree stands are sturdy and offer a spacious platform to wait for your deer.
You can choose from a standing platform or a two-man bench, depending on your preference. If you want, you can also add a padded seat to make it more comfortable.
Climbers
Climbers offer more flexibility and mobility than ladders and fixed position tree stands. You can carry them into the woods easily, set them up quickly, and you’re ready to go. The options here include padded seats, back and armrests, and shooting rails. Some of these types of stands also fold flat for easy transportation.
Fixed position tree stands
Fixed position tree stands are the middle-ground between ladders and climbers. They are better suited for situations where you will hang them well in advance of your hunt and leave them there. They are lighter than ladders and much easier to transport but are not as comfortable or secure as larger platforms.
Basically, this type of tree stand consists of a ladder and a seat. It can attach with a hook and chain or a ratchet strap. In order to access these types of stands, you need tree steps. Some are ladders while others are screw-in types. While the screw-in option is the least expensive, it is also not always allowed in hunting areas. Strap-on steps which do not damage trees are available for this reason.
When it comes to deer hunting and tree stands, it’s best to consider how long you plan on hunting as well as the location so that you can choose the right tree stand for you.
Deer Hunting and Tree Stand Tips
Choosing the right tree stand is only the first step. There are several tips which can help to make your deer hunting experience much more successful. Take a look.
Tree Stand Placement
First and foremost you need to make sure you are in the right area and have a good chance of spotting several whitetail deer. You also want to make sure the deer don’t see you. That’s why it’s a good idea to put yourself in the place of the deer to get a better idea of its vantage point. You’ll want to consider the time of year and the number of leaves on the tree as well as if you’re sitting high enough in the tree.
Camouflage Clothing
Once you have the right tree stand and have placed it in the prime location, it’s time to choose camouflage clothing so the deer don’t see you. From top to bottom, you want to be camouflaged. That means to keep the white t-shirts at home.
Scent
You can have the best tree stand and placement, but that won’t matter if you are giving off a scent the deer can catch. You always want to make sure you are downwind, so they won’t smell you. When it comes to deer hunting and tree stands, this is still an important tip.
Don’t let deer catch you in a pattern
You may not think it, but deer can easily catch you in a pattern. When you start going to the same tree stand every day, deer can figure that out. This will lessen your chances of having a successful hunt.
Deer hunting at Squaw Mountain Ranch
You can use these tips on deer hunting and tree stands while hunting whitetail deer at Squaw Mountain Ranch.
You can expect a one to one buck to doe ratio which allows hunters to see several deer to choose from during their hunt. We aim to accommodate all hunters including those with physical disabilities.
There is a variety of hunting packages to choose from at Squaw Mountain Ranch. No matter which you choose we ensure a fair hunt resulting in a trophy any hunter will be proud to display.
If you are planning a trophy hunt at Squaw Mountain Ranch, be sure to bring your rifle and ammo, hunting clothes, a Texas hunting license, cooler to transport meat and any other desired personal items. We look forward to meeting you and working with you in your hunt.