Saddle Hunting - anyone do it?

concepthomes2

When do we start?
2A Bourbon Hound OG
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I've been a climber type guy for a while but I'm getting tired of carrying the treestand, backpack, and weapon into the woods and sweating my giblets off before I even get settled into the stand.

I'd like to try saddle hunting but don't know enough about it and most of the YT videos I watch seem to assume a base knowledge of the saddle hunting process and items needed.

Looking for some tips and maybe even a broken down starter list that a layman can understand.
 
It’s caught my attention as well. And like you been a hesitant to go all in until I know more.
 
To be honest after watching just a couple vids, I probably have everything I need except the platform. I’ve got a ton of gear from my tower days, ascenders, ropes, carabiners, daisy chain straps, even have several harnesses that could be used as is or modified to save weight. I think I’m going to order a platform and give it a shot, since that’ll be the only $$ I have to spend, just to see if I like it.
 
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I like it for the option of using any tree that's big enough. Being locked into only straight trees has been a hinderance in the past.
 
Is this style intended for bow use?

It's brand new to me.
 
That looks like a butt bucket to hike out when flying a hull on a Hobie Cat.

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Just seems like a warmer alternative than sitting in a climber when it gets colder. Being in standing/semi standing position does wonders for your feet warmth.
 
I only just heard of saddle hunting from my buddy the other day when we were out scouting and he brought it up. Now I am getting ads on social media for saddle kits just for having talked about it, and now seeing this post. Must be some kind of sign that I need to get myself a set up, right?!?! 🤪
 
Yes. I tried it last year. Took my climber and the saddle setup in the vehicle with me last year. Both are for public land, I have more permanent setups on the little bit of private I hunt. This year the climber has stayed at home, didn’t even take it out of the garage.

Main advantages for me: ability to use trees that a climber would not without saw work or are crooked, and the ability to easily change hunting direction with minimal noise.

Things to consider… I got some slight discomfort that feels like bruised hips after heavy use (18 hours on stand over 2 days), but went away a day or two after use. You will need to practice, especially putting up in a new spot while it’s dark.
 
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Reading your first post again, what I bought to get started:
Saddle package that included lineman’s belt (for ascent/descent) and tether (what you hang from at the top)

Set of 4 climbing sticks

Platform

Small molle web pouches to carry things on saddle. Some hang a backpack at the top with gear. I use the saddle pouches and jacket pockets. One thing to remember is the saddle takes away access from front pants pockets.

Nite ize double locking carabiners and gear ties. To strap things to you or tree. I hang my thermacell off the saddle with a gear tie.
 
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Reading your first post again, what I bought to get started:
Saddle package that included lineman’s belt (for ascent/descent) and tether (what you hang from at the top)

Set of 4 climbing sticks

Platform

Small molle web pouches to carry things on saddle. Some hang a backpack at the top with gear. I use the saddle pouches and jacket pockets. One thing to remember is the saddle takes away access from front pants pockets.

Nite size double locking carabiners and gear ties. To strap things to you or tree. I hang my thermacell off the saddle with a gear tie.
That's very helpful. Thank you
 
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