6 Tips to Stay Safe Saddle Hunting This Season
This article, written by ACO Account Executive David Smith, was originally featured in the June 2024 Valley Voices Magazine.
It seems that the older you get, the faster time goes. While most of us are chasing turkeys now, it won’t be long until we are out scouting for deer and planning our fall adventures. The excitement of seeing new trail cam pictures, sighting in your preferred weapon, and daydreaming about the moment when that deer steps out can make safety take a back seat at times. Check out these 6 tips to ensure a safe hunting season.
1. Stay Connected!
The number one rule, above all else, is to make sure you are connected to the tree once you leave the ground. Whether you use a saddle, climber, lock-on, or ladder – make sure you are connected to the tree. This can be achieved via a tether, or lifeline and a safety harness. Should anything else happen during your hunt, being connected to the tree ensures you will not experience a life-threatening fall. Make sure to purchase your gear from reputable vendors and brands to ensure what you buy is life-safety rated and dependable.
2. Inspect Your Stuff!
Check your stands to make sure the bolts are tight, cables are not worn, and attachment straps do not show any wear. For permanent stand location, ensure they are in good working order, properly secured and supported, and the wood is not rotting in any structural areas. Most companies have replacement parts available to keep your stand in safe working condition year after year. Soft goods such as straps and ropes should be inspected for any wear, glazing, fraying, flat spots, or bulging. Any of these indicates the item should be replaced.
Ropes, fall arrest harnesses, straps, and saddles should be replaced 5 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of condition. Time, dirt, sunlight, and use all weaken these items. Finally, should you experience a fall, the equipment used should be removed from use and replaced.
3. Know Your Stuff!
Before using anything in the field, it is recommended that you become familiar with your equipment in a controlled environment at ground level. This ensures you do not run into any snags in the field, and you can become comfortable with your equipment and how it works in a safe environment. Secondly, make sure you take the time to fully read any manufacturer warnings or recommendations. As a side note – make sure what you are purchasing is rated for your intended use.
4. Inspect The Tree!
This should go without saying but ensure the tree you are looking to perch from is in good, healthy condition and not dead. I’ve seen some very questionable trees climbed while perusing social media over the past few years.
5. Don’t Go Alone!
While hunting can be a solitary endeavor, it is important to let someone know where you are and what time you plan on being home or leaving. Thankfully with cell phones, it has become much easier to find people, but should you find yourself unable to call for help, this crucial step will lead to a timely rescue. I personally text my wife when I have gotten set up, when I am coming down, when I am on the ground, and back at the truck. Ensure you keep your cell phone within easy reach. I normally use my chest pocket on my jacket. Keep a whistle or other signaling device should you drop your phone or its battery dies.
6. Be Prepared!
As with anything, accidents happen. It is never a bad idea to keep a small first aid kit with you while hunting. Broadheads are sharp, wasps sting, groundhogs dig holes – anything can happen out in the field. Other items to keep on hand include a compass and mirror, should you become lost in the dark. Technology is great, but sometimes it fails or isn’t as accurate as it needs to be.
These 6 tips should always be top-of-mind whether hunting from a saddle or the ground. The excitement of tracking an animal and getting to harvest is one of the most fulfilling parts of the hunt – but don’t let it cost you your safety… or worse, your life.
If you have any questions about hunting and outdoors safety, don’t hesitate to stop into the Ape Canyon Outfitters storefront where our experts will be happy to assist you. Or, shoot us an email or give us a call.
Stay safe & good luck in the upcoming season!