Having the right cover in your treestand setup is crucial for staying concealed from wary deer. Too much exposure can get you spotted, especially in pressured hunting areas. Start by choosing trees with natural cover, such as those with multiple trunks, thick foliage, or surrounding branches that break up your outline. Oaks, maples, and pines often provide excellent cover.
If natural cover is lacking, use artificial methods. Zip-tie branches, attach brush, or use camouflage netting to blend in. Position your stand where background cover prevents you from being skylined. Hanging your stand slightly off-trail, instead of directly over it, can also help keep you hidden.
Height matters—setting up between 18 to 25 feet reduces your visibility. However, higher stands need more surrounding cover to prevent deer from picking you out. In open woods, consider setting up in clusters of trees or near thick understory.
Trim shooting lanes carefully to maintain cover while ensuring clear shots. Avoid over-pruning, as sudden gaps can alert deer. Always match your clothing to the surroundings, including gloves and face masks. Proper planning and adjustments throughout the season will keep you hidden and improve your success this fall.
