Essential Gear and Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success
Choosing Your Elevated Platform
The market offers a variety of tree stand styles, each catering to different needs. Selecting the right stand is the first critical step. You must weigh the advantages and disadvantages to ensure the best fit.
Fixed-Position Stands: These stands are permanently affixed to a tree using straps or chains. They are generally more stable and comfortable, offering a great deal of room. They are ideally suited for locations where you intend to hunt regularly. The downside is the initial setup time and the need to select a tree.
Hang-On Stands: These stands are designed to be mounted on a tree using a platform and a system of brackets and straps. They are generally lighter and more portable than fixed-position stands. A key advantage is portability, allowing you to move to where game is, based on the latest scouting information. They may require a bit more effort to install and can be less comfortable for long sits.
Climbing Stands: These stands use a system of interlocking platforms and foot straps to allow you to climb the tree. They are exceptionally portable and are ideal if you are hunting a large area where you want to quickly move from tree to tree. These can be very comfortable but require a tree with specific characteristics (e.g., no branches for the first 10-15 feet) for the mechanism to work correctly. Climbing stands also can be limited in the size tree they will accommodate.
Regardless of your chosen stand style, *always* verify the weight capacity to ensure it aligns with your weight, gear, and clothing. Select a comfortable stand to allow you to stay in the game longer.
Safety – Your Unwavering Priority
Safety is not just a suggestion; it is a commitment. A tree stand can be a dangerous place if you’re not committed to doing things correctly. Your equipment protects you from serious injury.
The Full-Body Harness (and the Lifeline): This is non-negotiable. A well-fitting full-body harness is essential. A fall from any height can be catastrophic. The harness should fit snugly and be properly adjusted. Before you climb, ensure the straps are secure, and the buckles are properly fastened. A safety rope (lifeline) or tree strap system is equally critical for ascending and descending. Attach the harness to the lifeline *before* you leave the ground and *keep it connected* the entire time you’re in the tree. The lifeline moves up with you and provides continuous protection. Ensure your lifeline is rated to support your weight.
Fall Arrest Systems: Besides the harness, the fall arrest system should have: a shock-absorbing lanyard and a reliable carabiner.
Regular Inspection: Routinely inspect the stand, straps, chains, and all other components for wear and tear. Replace any damaged equipment immediately.
The Right Archery Equipment: Fine-Tuning Your Arsenal
Your bow and its accompanying equipment are tools of the trade. The right setup is crucial.
Bow Selection: The bow should fit your draw length and draw weight preferences. Consider the type of hunting you’ll be doing, and choose a bow that offers a good balance of power and maneuverability. Consider the maneuverability of the bow while standing in your tree stand.
Arrows – The Delivery System: Select arrows that are appropriately spined (matched to your bow’s draw weight), arrow weight (for your desired trajectory), and broadhead-compatible. Consider the trajectory of your arrows at the distances you will typically be shooting from your tree stand.
Sighting and Tuning: Sight in your bow meticulously from the tree stand height. Because of the angle and elevation, your point of impact may vary. The most effective method is to practice from your tree stand or a platform that mimics the height.
The Practice: A Path to Proficiency
The Practice: A Path to Proficiency
Regular practice is not merely a suggestion but a necessity. Practice from a platform that replicates the height of your tree stand, and make sure to practice with the exact equipment you will use while hunting. This will familiarize you with the unique shooting angles and challenges that come with elevated hunting. Learn to estimate distances accurately.
Setting Up Your Elevated Vantage Point: Location, Location, Location
Finding the Perfect Tree
Finding the Perfect Tree
Finding the right tree goes beyond just a secure structure; it’s about optimizing your chances of encountering game.
Concealment: Select a tree that provides natural concealment. Consider the surrounding vegetation, such as branches that will break up your silhouette.
Wind Direction: Position your stand downwind of prevailing winds to help mask your scent.
Game Trails: Position your stand near game trails, feeding areas, or travel corridors.
Health and Structure: Inspect the tree for any signs of disease, rot, or damage. Ensure the tree can safely bear the weight of you and your gear.
Optimizing Your Position for Concealment and Effectiveness
Height Considerations: Finding the right height is a balancing act between safety and effectiveness. The higher you go, the more scent control you have and the better the view, but the more difficult it is to get into and out of.
Visibility: Ensure you have a clear line of sight to potential targets.
Concealment: Break up your silhouette by using camouflage or natural cover. Consider using additional leafy camouflage attached to your stand.
Securing the Stand
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper attachment based on your stand type. Regularly check all straps, chains, and other components for wear or damage.
Shooting Techniques: Mastering the Art From Above
Body Mechanics
The unique perspectives and angles of elevated shooting create new challenges, requiring adjustments in your technique.
Stability: Maintain a stable base, even when drawing your bow. Your body is supporting a great deal of weight, and you want to ensure that is even during your draw.
Angle: Practice shooting at different angles. The height difference will affect your arrow trajectory.
Drawing and Anchoring
Clearance: Make sure the bow string clears any part of the tree stand.
Anchor Point: Maintain a consistent anchor point for accurate shooting.
Compensation
Understanding the Effects of Angles: This is critical. The steeper the angle, the less distance the arrow travels due to gravity. Understand the math and use the tools.
Corrected Distance: Use a rangefinder, preferably one that provides “angle compensation” or “shooting distance”, which will accurately calculate the distance based on the angle and distance.
Execution: The Critical Moment
Breathing and Focus: Control your breathing, and maintain a laser focus on your target.
Smooth Release and Follow-Through: Execute a clean and controlled release, and maintain your follow-through.
Wind: The Silent Partner
Direction and Speed: Always assess the wind direction and speed.
Anticipate Drift: Account for wind drift.
Make Adjustments: Adjust your shot accordingly.
Shot Opportunities and Tracking: From the Stand to the Recovery
Identifying an Ethical Shot
Successfully shooting your bow is only part of the equation.
Vitals: Focus on aiming at the vital organs. A double lung shot is typically the most effective.
Angles: Understand shot placement and the angle of the animal.
Obstacles: Consider any obstacles.
Dealing with Movement
Minimize Movement: Avoid unnecessary movement.
Movement Discipline: Wait for the opportune moment before drawing your bow.
After the Shot
Observe: Watch the animal’s reaction and its direction.
Assess: Evaluate the shot and estimate the time until tracking.
Tracking and Recovery
Blood Trail: Follow the blood trail, and use the animal’s movement as an indicator of how it’s moving.
Respect and Ethical Hunting: Understand that a lost animal should be something to avoid at all costs. The responsibility of the hunter is of the utmost importance.
Safety: Always At the Forefront
Tree Stand Safety
Safety is not a one-time concern; it’s a continuous process.
Adherence: Always use a full-body harness and lifeline when in a tree stand.
Climbing: Use appropriate climbing and descending techniques.
Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your stand.
Weather Conditions
Wind: The wind impacts your arrow, so you must account for it.
Rain and Snow: These conditions can affect visibility and traction. Adjust your hunting plan accordingly.
Mental Acuity
Stay Calm: Manage your emotions, and maintain a calm and focused mindset.
Additional Tips
Share Your Plans: Inform someone of your plans.
Carry Communication: Have a way to communicate (a cell phone or a radio).
Environment Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings.
Conclusion
Bowhunting from a tree stand is an incredible opportunity for those who want to connect with nature. With proper preparation, consistent practice, and an unwavering commitment to safety, you can master this art.
Call to Action
The journey of learning how to shoot a bow from a tree stand never truly ends. Continue to hone your skills, expand your knowledge, and most importantly, enjoy the experience. What is your favorite tip for bowhunting from a tree stand? Share it below in the comments!
