Tree Saddle

[GooseCommander]

Looking for info from anyone who has experience hunting with a tree saddle. After bowhunting Ohio this past fall for the first time, it was evident being mobile was a necessity as I was learning the land. Traditionally, I utilize a climber but the habitat in Ohio is more diverse than that here NY where a tree to climb wasn't always available. Therefore, was leaning towards a setup that used climbing sticks (like the Beast Climbing Sticks ). Initially, I was going just to go with a light tree stand like the Lone Wolf Assault, but having watched numerous episodes of The Hunting Public where they utilize Tethrd tree saddle gear I am intrigued by this approach. Therefore, looking to hear from anyone who has first hand experience using this type of setup.

[jdbbowhunter]

No first hand experiance with tree saddle, but have met a . few guys who hunt with them. They were using Lone wolf sticks n small platform. Said it was very safe and mobile.

[LouieM]

my brother and I got into saddle hunting last season, it is definitely the way to go for being mobile.  I rarely sit the same tree twice.  I wear a pack with an internal frame to carry in climbing sticks and a platform to stand on, all while wearing my saddle.  Pack also big enough for extra layers for winter time.  We spent  spring and summer of 2018 practicing to be ready for last season.  Lots of youtube videos to watch to learn and practice makes setting up easier, quicker every time.   Some times I would go in with an area in mind and some times I would still hunt/scout my way in and be able to sit over hot sign.  The saddle works for so many trees you are able to do that.   

Great example of being mobile is on nov 1st I sat on a hardwood point in this swamp and noticed two nice bucks crossing the swamp same spot twice.  It was no big deal to climb down and go pick a tree over where they were cruising.  Found their tracks crossing a creek and set up.  Unfortunately I had to leave and could not sit til dark.  (I wound up getting a buck the next day with my wife there so it all worked out)

It is also great for private land.  We take grade 8 6" screws and preset a bunch of trees using a drill bit.  So you can preset as many trees as you buy 6" screws and all you need is your platform/saddle for those sits (verses needing all of those different ladder stands). 

[GooseCommander]

@LouieM

What make and model of tree saddle and climbing sticks do you use? What do you like about them and what don't you like?

[MK]

Following!

[DXT]

I've been watching some YouTube videos on this, looks awesome!!! Theres a local guy who goes by NY saddle hunter, hes from dutchess county,  cool stuff!!

[LouieM]

@LouieM

What make and model of tree saddle and climbing sticks do you use? What do you like about them and what don't you like?

I have a aerohunter kestral saddle and I use Hawk Helium Sticks.  My sticks are cut down to 22" to make them easier to manage in brush (and minor weight savings).  I use a tethrd predator platform (that I preferred after trying a ring of steps).  I love the kestral saddle - well made and feels like I will never need another one.  I also like the hawk sticks because they are cheap (3 for $99) and easy to use.  Besides being cut down I also added a versa button to make easier to cam (we can discuss mods like that much later). I know you mentioned the beast sticks and from what I read, those are def awesome.  Just gonna have to pay a lot more (should last decades though).  Another popular option besides Hawk, beast or lone wolf sticks is a climbing method created by a company called Wild Edge Stepps.  Definitely check them out as well. Lots of options

Initial investment is costly, both time wise practicing and monetarily, but this ideally will be one system to last decades.   

I highly recommend checking out the Saddlehunter.com forum and facebook groups.  So much info.  Also a huge DIY aspect if you prefer to go that route verses buying a kit from Aerohunter or Tethrd.  Lots of guys willing to help out on those pages. 

 

[walkabout]

Following!

me to

[Yotehntr]

I have Almost the same exact set-up as Louie. I have a guidos web and a kite, which is just the mesh version of the kestrel.  I ended up cutting off the leg  straps, which for me helped with comfort and mobility. For me, it hasn’t completely replaced a climber or lok-on, but it definitely has its place.

[GooseCommander]

Curious as to how the shooting goes since you are looking at/around the tree as compared to a treestand. I could see the strong side being ok to shoot (say 7 o'clock to noon - the tree for a right hand shooter), but how is it to try and shoot the weak side (maneuvering the weapon between the tree and you) and shooting behind?

[KillerCrow]

Was thinking same thing

[Yotehntr]

Shooting isn’t as difficult as it looks. Being able to maneuver around the tree opens up the opportunity to where you can keep most shots on your strong side. Also, you can hide behind the tree and adjust for a shot as the deer moves closer.

[GooseCommander]

Another thing I've read and seen is the use of knee pads to alleviate bruises/improve comfort with contact with the tree. Do either of you guys use them or see a need for them?

Do you notice any fatigue in your feet from standing on such a small platform? Are all day sits possible with the setup?

Also, how long does it take to go up a tree while setting up and to come down a tree while taking down the setup?

[gill1]

Interesting??

[LouieM]

Another thing I've read and seen is the use of knee pads to alleviate bruises/improve comfort with contact with the tree. Do either of you guys use them or see a need for them?

Do you notice any fatigue in your feet from standing on such a small platform? Are all day sits possible with the setup?

Also, how long does it take to go up a tree while setting up and to come down a tree while taking down the setup?

I do use knee pads and highly recommend them.  I use the Arcteryx knee pads and they are comfortable enough I wear them right from the truck and forget I have them on. Even worn them when still hunting and not in the saddle.  There are two main types of saddle hunters, leaners and people who sit.  I sit 90% of the time and occasionally lean to stretch out. Kneepads a must if you get used to sitting and not leaning. https://youtu.be/Jii9JiLq6fc

For longer sits I use a backband that came with the kestral and that thing makes it feel like I am sitting in a seat. Even better than a treestand because I can make adjustments.  It does take practice to get comfortable because there are a number of adjustments you can make.  Examples are the length of your bridge, height of your tether etc but you can worry about those adjustments as you get familiar with a future set up. 

I would estimate it takes me 15-20 mins to set up because I like to take it slow and be quiet.  If it is cold I like to set up then climb down to change my socks (long walk in) and base layer, add a coat etc.  Being quick and quiet will come with practice of course. 

Shooting angles is another thing to practice in the off season.  There are a bunch of good youtube videos on how to shoot 360 from the saddle with bow or rifle.  Rifle from the saddle is great because you have the tree to use as a rest if the deer is in front of you and you have your bridge to rest on if off to the side.   https://youtu.be/azvFKcpYu1M