Chapter 6: Methods of Bowhunting

Hang-On Stands

These simple platforms provide about four square feet of space. They must be hauled into place and secured to the tree with belts or chains. These stands require separate climbing aids such as segmented ladders or climbing sticks. When installing a climbing aid:

• Determine your climbing route before attaching the climbing equipment to a tree.
• Attach the aid to the tree so that it extends above the stand’s platform and you can step down onto the platform. This will help you test the stability of the stand before placing all your weight on it. Stepping laterally onto a stand could cause it to tilt sideways or become unstable.

Climbing Stands

These platform stands are designed for trees with straight, uniform trunks and consist of two sections, which are also the climbing aids. A hunter “walks” the stand up a tree by moving one section with the hands and one with the feet.

• While on the ground, you must adjust the stand to allow for the tapering of the tree as you go up.
• When climbing, go slowly, take small steps, and always keep the two sections attached to one another with a tether.
• This type of stand is not suited for trees with shaggy bark, such as some pines or hickories, or for trees with branches between the ground and the desired elevation.
• Never use these stands on trees covered with ice or snow.

Ladder Stands

Ladder stands usually provide a platform 10 to 20 feet above the ground. The built-in ladder lets you use these stands with a wider range of trees than other portable tree stands. Due to their size and weight, hunters normally assemble and set up ladder stands before the first day of hunting.

Three to five people are needed to erect or take down a ladder stand safely. When setting up the stand:

• Clear the base area of all rocks and debris, making sure the ground is level.
• Lean the stand against the tree and chain or strap it into place.
• Use all parts of the stand.

Tripods, Quadpods, or Tower Stands (Free-Standing)

These stands are similar to a ladder tree stand but are free-standing and can be placed anywhere that has a firm base. They may be used in brushland habitats or treeless areas. Some resemble one or two chairs atop stilts. Others are enclosed, box-like platforms, and should be used by bowhunters only if the windows are large enough for bow clearance and shooting.