Saddle hunting offers tons of flexibility. Users can hunt in almost any tree they want, and once in position, there are many shot options. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
September 10, 2024
By Ryan Fair
In recent years, saddle hunting has become a game-changer in the realm of mobile hunting. Saddle systems are usually incredibly lightweight, and they let you get in almost any tree you want. In my opinion, a saddle is also the safest way to hunt from a tree because you’re securely attached to it from the moment your feet leave the ground. While their perceived complexity causes some hunters to eschew saddle systems, the process of using them is relatively straightforward, and quite effective.
ESSENTIAL GEAR Let’s start with the basics of the saddle and the components needed to climb. The saddle itself is the part you sit in, and it’s made from various types of fabric. It can also be a single panel or a double panel, depending on user preference. The saddle is the heart of the system, and the other components attach to it.
The first rope I’ll discuss is the bridge. This is a rope that goes from one end of the saddle to the other and is attached with either Prusik knots, carabiners or a combination of both. The bridge attaches to the tether to secure you to the tree.
Next up, the lineman’s rope helps you climb the tree while also keeping you secure. There are two large D rings sewn into the saddle. This is where you attach your lineman’s rope. Attach it on the D ring on your saddle, wrap it around the tree, and then hook it into the other D ring.
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You do this using carabiners and a Prusik knot. Prusik knots will slide up and down your rope freely, but they pull tight once pressure is applied to them. You will keep constant pressure on the rope as you slide it up the tree, which will prevent falls in case of a slip. When you reach your desired hunting height, reach into your pouch and grab your next rope—the tree tether.
Wrap the tree tether around the tree and fasten it to your bridge with a carabiner attached to a Prusik knot. You can adjust the tether height to where it feels most comfortable; most manufacturers recommend starting at about eye level.
The final two pieces of a saddle setup are your climbing sticks and platform. As their name suggests, climbing sticks are used to climb the tree, and they are available in several different lengths. Using screw-in steps (where allowed) or only using one stick and rappelling down are other viable climbing methods, too. Platforms are what you stand on at hunting height, and they are available in several different styles, shapes and sizes. Because you’ll be standing on it for long periods of time, find one that’s comfortable and has plenty of room for your feet.
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EXPEDIENT EXTRAS As with many types of hunting, extra accessories abound with saddle systems. Some are incredibly useful and can make life easier. A Ropeman 1, which you can use in place of a Prusik knot on your ropes, is an example. This mechanical device allows your rope to slide through easily until pressure is applied, and it is perfect for making fast adjustments with one hand while minimizing extra movements. You can use one on both your lineman’s rope and tether.
The Ropeman 1 takes the place of a Prusik knot. It’s more intuitive to use and easier to move along the rope. (Left photo courtesy Of Whitetail DNA, right photo courtesy of TETHRD). Another solid investment is a good set of knee pads. These let you rest your knees against the tree in a sitting position and are great for longer days. Also carry a good rope, like paracord, that’s at least 5 feet longer than the highest height you plan to climb and has a carabiner tied to it. This will let you pull your bow up once you’re tied into the tree. The last extra I’ll mention is a gear strap of some sort, which goes around a tree and serves as a place to hang your bow and pack. These four extras are well worth the extra outlay, especially on all-day sits.
THE PROCESS Now that we have gear lined out, let’s detail how to set up and start hunting.
Step 1 Once at the base of your chosen tree, assemble your gear for simplified climbing and setup. For example, I attach my sticks and platform to my belt and hook my bow to a pull-up rope. This makes your sticks and platform easier to access when climbing. Next, attach your first climbing stick to the tree as high as you can while still being accessible with your foot. Then wrap your lineman’s rope around the tree and adjust it to be comfortable but secure.
Keep the lineman’s rope attached while wrapping the tree tether and securing it to the bridge. Remove the lineman’s rope only after the tether is locked to the bridge. (Photo courtesy Of Trophyline) Step 2 Now it’s time to climb. Start slowly at first until you get comfortable. You’ll slide your lineman’s rope up the tree as you climb, always keeping firm pressure on the saddle. Upon reaching the top step of a stick, attach your next stick to the tree and continue climbing. Repeat as needed until you attain the height you want.
Step 3 After reaching your desired hunting height, it’s time to attach your platform. When placing it, consider what side of the tree you want to position yourself. Once it’s secured in place, you can step off your stick onto the platform. Keep your lineman’s rope attached, though you may need to adjust it a little.
Step 4 With your lineman’s rope still attached, wrap your tree tether around the tree. Once it’s secure, lock it onto your bridge. Now it’s safe to take off the lineman’s rope. Slowly apply pressure to your bridge until you find a comfortable spot. Next, pull your bow up, nock an arrow and secure the bow to the tree. You’re ready to hunt.
Step 5 After the hunt, repeat the steps in reverse order to descend from the tree. That’s it. While hunters unfamiliar with them view saddles as complicated, they really are a simple, safe and effective method to hunt from any tree.
This article was featured in the September 2024 issue of Game & Fish magazine. Click to subscribe .
