Hunting from Elevated Stands

Elevated stands place the hunter above ground level. They can be tree stands placed in or against trees, or free-standing structures. They have become increasingly popular in recent years with both firearm and bow hunters. While they offer certain advantages, they also have some drawbacks, including a degree of risk.

Advantages

• Provide a wider field of vision—game is spotted sooner than at ground level
• Allow time to plan for best shot through earlier detection of game
• Position a hunter above the animal’s normal field of vision
• Make a hunter’s scent harder to detect and movement less noticeable
• Make a hunter more visible to other sportsmen so that he or she is less likely to be hit by a stray bullet
• Provide a good backstop for arrows or bullets due to shooting at a downward angle

Disadvantages

• Increase risk of injury resulting from falling
• Can be difficult to carry, especially large, portable stands
• Provide no protection from cold or wind
• Give little room for movement
• Cannot move toward game while hunting

See the next page to view types of elevated stands.

Treestand Overview Video

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To view this video a computer with Macromedia Flash and speakers or headphones is required. Most students will already have Flash installed. If not, follow this link to install the Flash Player.