I set up a new ladder stand today (which just about killed me and my little brother) just off a well used trail I've seen lots of deer using while scouting. Only problem is the only good tree in that general area where I put the stand today doesnt give me a lot of cover. One side will break up my silhouette pretty good but on the other I feel real exposed. What do you guys use to help with that? Attach tree branches? any advice? Thanks guys...

Adam Bowman

Sorry can not help you alot. Maybe another tree or a ground blind.

Hang some camo netting on the exposed side early and leave it up there for the deer to get used to. That will break you up enough for the cover you need.

I have the same problem with one of my stands. I cut branches later on, closer to fall so they dont die out so fast and attach them to the stand to cover a side or two. They sell adaptors that mount to your stand to hold cut branches. I tried them last year, but cut them too soon and by the time season came, they were to dry and noisy to deal with. You can always use the netting though, although I cant see through the netting like you can natural foliage.

I think its better to find a tree with good cover thats not in exactly the right spot ratherthan hunt a tree in the perfect spot with no cover. If you decide to add branches for cover then oak leaves stay on the longest but they turn brown and get crunchy pretty quick.

yeah just do that and if you can add some more stuff to break up the shape of the cover as well

can you use a climber instead and go higher? maybe even a hang on? otherwise, ground blind. you're kind of hosed with a ladder stand, it's their one down fall. I love ladder stands but you can't put them just anywhere.

sometimes you can put stands on the back of trees and use the tree to give you some cover. obviously, that has some down sides too, but it CAN hide you better.

I've had the same problem many times myself. I started using artificial
branches 5-6 years ago and they have really helped. I use black
zip-ties to attach them to the sides & bottom of the stand, any nearby
small branches and also to the side braces for the seat.

You may be able to find them cheaper somewhere else but here's a link
so you can take a look.

Hope this helps

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0004912415016a&type=product&cm Cat=SEARCH&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=cover+branch&N=4887 &Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1& amp;Ntt=cover+branch&noImage=0

thanks guys.. good advice..

I usually cut cedar limbs to use as extra cover, they stay green for a long time after cutting and will hold their needles for months...