In the non-stop pursuit of trying to get away with less in the woods I've been getting some stuff together for it. I think I'll use it only when I'm not bundled up like the Michelin Man in freezing weather. I have about every different way to climb and have done "one-sticking" and repelled down before but want to refine my technique and the slow is smooth smooth is fast saying. Anyone do it most of the time that has any tips that you found out after doing it that will make it more convenient or any lessons you've learned of what to do and what not to do. My physical size is 6'1" and about 155lbs.
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Anyone saddle hunt by “one-stick” climbing
- Thread starter Hduke86
- Start date
Tried it. Wasn't for me. Now I have 5 setups with preset sticks so I'm only carrying in my platform.
I have one set of sticks to use for mobile hunting if one of those 5 don't work out for the given day.
I have one set of sticks to use for mobile hunting if one of those 5 don't work out for the given day.
I've got some preset places and still do use sticks for sure. It may not be for me either after a time or two of struggling lol. I've used the Wild Egde tree stepps and they're great if I can get them solid on the tree.
@fulldraw
Well-Known Member
Way too much work. I have four sticks with aiders but usually use three and the platform.
For me it was frustrating with more opportunity for failure from a safety standpoint. Also, i sweat A LOT. Anything I can do to minimize exertion getting into the tree minimizes my stink once in the tree
This is an adults only conversation. So go play with your dolls.
Heck I may end up hating it but I think if I continue to use my sticks or Wild edge stepps that I'll adapt the repelling down part
ImThere
Well-Known Member
I use a 24" stick with a 5 step aider. I get most of my height from the ground, even at 5'7". It is the large move. The next couple if I decide to do, depending on canopy, will be much shorter moves. The reach from sitting in the saddle isn't as good. Then when I finish my climb I set my steps "12-18" above the stick for my final foot height.
Just think about as high as you can reach and set the strap your feet will be above that with your first move when you use an aider.
Just think about as high as you can reach and set the strap your feet will be above that with your first move when you use an aider.
peytoncreekhunter
Well-Known Member
Anymore it's just ladder stands for me or sitting at the base of a big tree.
I do it with 2 ropes with stirrups tied in the bottom. Its slow climbing, but super lightweight. Then at the top I use 4 ezy climb screw ins. I can walk around the tree for shot position.
I have some wild edge. Those jokers are really hard to set properly. They will be one of my set it and leave it setups. Had them slip on me more than once. Be safe!
I put together everything last year to saddle hunt but not one stick. I've gotten old and lazy where it's just easier climbing preset stands. Hoping to break that mold up a little bit this year and keep the deer guessing where I am instead of walking in and looking straight for me.
Oh trust me, I tasted what white oak bark tasted like before
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Shanman
Well-Known Member
Never tried one sticking, figured I would make a lot more noise against the tree in the transitions. I like the idea and really see the benefits when walking back deep, but I'm not going to drag a deer over a mile to start with. 3 Shikars and a 3 step aider get me high enough, plus they don't weigh that much. For a lightweight setup I'm sure one sticking or ropes is the way to go. Like anything else, the more you practice the more you learn.
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Tried one sticking but didn't like the amount of slack put in my tether. Didn't pass my personal safety risk. I do however 2TC (two tether climb). I know that is not what you asked about. Anyways I bet I could sale you on the method. I'm in your neck of the woods so if you want more information or a try just let me know. You already have all the gear so there is nothing to loose to try it, if you haven't already.
My main climbing method is a hand drill and carbon bolts. I hunt private land mostly. I do have a one stick and rappel setup as well for public land. Lots of practice and watching YouTube videos helped me the most. I'm still far from a pro at it.
What hand drill do you have? I'm not really interested in bolts but, I wouldn't mind having a decent hand drill around as a backup to getting my Ozonics mount screwed in. About every other tree it doesn't want to go in for me. Thought about the drill to get a good start into the tree for the screw.
Treehopper mini with the folding handle. It works extremely well.
