Saddle Hunting Essentials: How to Gear Up for a Successful Hunt
Hunting

Gear up, we are going Saddle Hunting!

Saddle Hunting Essentials: How to Gear Up for a Successful Hunt

I have always been fascinated by the different hunting techniques and equipment available. One such technique that has gained popularity in recent years is saddle hunting. Saddle hunting involves using a tree saddle to hunt from an elevated position. 

In this blog article, I will discuss the essentials of saddle hunting, including why it is becoming popular, advantages of tree saddle hunting, types of tree saddles, essential gear for saddle hunting, how to properly set up your saddle and gear, safety tips, techniques for saddle hunting, and best practices for successful saddle hunting.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Saddle hunting is a hunting technique that has gained popularity in recent years. It allows hunters to hunt from an elevated position, making it easier to spot game and providing a better vantage point. A hunting tree saddle, lineman’s belt or rock-climbing harness is used to clip to a secure anchor when reaching the desired height on the tree.

What is Saddle Hunting?

A friend of mine asked me if saddle hunting involved horses… God bless his soul. But, no. Saddle hunting is a hunting technique that involves using a tree saddle to hunt from an elevated position. This technique has been used for centuries by indigenous people and has recently gained popularity among modern hunters. 

The tree saddle is a lightweight harness that is wrapped around the hunter’s waist and legs, allowing them to sit or stand in a comfortable position while hunting.

Why Saddle Hunting is Becoming Popular?

Saddle hunting is becoming popular for several reasons. Firstly, it allows hunters to hunt from an elevated position, which provides a better vantage point and makes it easier to spot game. 

Secondly, tree saddles are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and set up. Thirdly, saddle hunting is a quieter hunting technique, as the hunter is suspended from the tree and is less likely to make noise on the ground.

Hunter featuring the VENATIC Saddle by Trophyline Saddle Hunting Gear
Hunter featuring the VENATIC Saddle by Trophyline Saddle Hunting Gear

Advantages of Tree Saddle Hunting

Tree saddle hunting has several advantages over other hunting techniques. Firstly, it allows hunters to be more mobile, as they can easily move from one tree to another. This makes it easier to follow game and find the best hunting spots. 

Secondly, tree saddle hunting is more comfortable than other hunting techniques, as the hunter can sit or stand in a comfortable position for extended periods. Lastly, tree saddle hunting is a safer hunting technique, as the hunter is suspended from the tree and is less likely to fall.

Types of Tree Saddles

There are several types of tree saddles available for hunters. The most common types are:

  1. The ring of steps: The ring of steps is a system of steps that are attached to the tree and allow the hunter to climb up and down. 
  2. The bridge: The bridge is a type of tree saddle that has a rope bridge that connects the hunter to the tree. 
  3. The platform: The platform is a type of tree saddle that has a platform that the hunter stands or sits on.

Essential Gear for Saddle Hunting

There are several pieces of essential gear that hunters need for saddle hunting. The first piece of gear is the tree saddle itself. The tree saddle should be lightweight, comfortable, and durable. The next piece of gear is the climbing system. 

The climbing system should be easy to use and should allow the hunter to climb up and down the tree safely. The third piece of gear is the safety harness. The safety harness is essential for preventing falls and should be worn at all times while hunting.

How to Properly Set Up Your Saddle and Gear

Properly setting up your saddle and gear is essential for a successful hunt. The first step is to select a suitable tree. The tree should be straight, strong, and free from any dead branches. The next step is to set up the climbing system. 

The climbing system should be securely attached to the tree and should allow the hunter to climb up and down safely. The third step is to set up the tree saddle. The tree saddle should be securely attached to the tree and should be positioned at a comfortable height.

Safety Tips for Saddle Hunting

Safety is paramount when it comes to hunting, and saddle hunting is no exception. The first safety tip is to always use your lineman’s belt when climbing up or down the tree. The lineman’s belt allows you to safely attach your climbing method and platform while staying attached to the tree. You should only remove the lineman’s belt once you are safely tethered to the tree on your platform.

The second safety tip is to always use a climbing system. The climbing system should be easy to use and should allow the hunter to climb up and down the tree safely.  The third safety tip is to always check your gear before each hunt. The gear should be inspected for any signs of wear and tear and should be replaced if necessary.

Techniques for Saddle Hunting

There are several techniques that hunters can use while saddle hunting. The first technique is to stay still and quiet. Hunters should avoid making any sudden movements or noises that may scare away game. The second technique is to use a deer call. 

A deer call can be used to attract game and make them more visible. The third technique is to use scent control. Hunters should avoid using any scented products that may alert game to their presence.

Best Practices for Successful Saddle Hunting

Successful saddle hunting requires careful planning and preparation. The first best practice is to scout your hunting area. Hunters should familiarize themselves with the terrain and the game in the area before hunting. 

The second best practice is to practice your shooting. Hunters should practice shooting from an elevated position to ensure accuracy. The third best practice is to be patient. Saddle hunting requires patience and persistence, and hunters should be prepared to spend extended periods in the tree.

Tree saddle hunting is a safer and more comfortable hunting technique than other methods, and there are several types of tree saddles available for hunters. Properly setting up your saddle and gear is essential for a successful hunt, and hunters should always prioritize safety when hunting. 

With careful planning and preparation, saddle hunting can be a rewarding and successful hunting technique.

If you’re interested in saddle hunting, be sure to check out our selection of tree saddles and gear. Happy hunting!

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About Zakk Plocica

Zakk Plocica is the owner and operator of Extreme Outfitters. He loves his family; he is an avid hunter and outdoorsman and a true patriot.

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