Don' t wait until you are in the woods in the morning to figure out what you have to do with your equipment.

You won' t believe how long it can take you to get situated and up a tree if you are not used to doing it. Take your stand out in the woods and climb a tree or two of different shapes to practice and get more efficient.

Choosing a tree is VERY important. If you pick the wrong tree you will be pissed at yourself all day. Make it solid so if the wind picks up you don' t feel like a kite in the breeze. You will also be surprised at how much you have to angle your platform on some trees. If you don' t angle it to match the taper of the trunk you will have a leaning forward platform that feels unsafe and uncomfortable.

Climbing can also be done very quietly or very loudly depending on your skill level. If you take your time and know what you are doing you can get up a tree making very little noise..........which never hurts.