With more than 10 million acres of land open to public hunting and the abundance of game species, Michigan is a hunter’s paradise during the fall season.

Tree stand hunting is a particularly enjoyable hunting style that is quite popular. Nothing quite matches the thrill of anticipating the approach of the game from your vantage point on a tree stand. If the pounding of your heart doesn’t interfere with your aim, the target should be right in front of you allowing for a quick and humane kill.

It should be noted that tree stand hunting does have its fair share of risks. According to the International Hunter Education Association, about 1 in 3 of hunters using elevated stands experience falls at some point that could result in twisted joints, broken bones, or worse.

Here are some safety tips to help you stay safe while tree stand hunting:

• Use Sturdy Equipment: The tree stand should be certified or tested to ensure it can adequately support your body weight as well as all your gear. Do not try to alter the tree stand, especially self-climbing tree stands that act as a moving step to help you climb.
• Fall-Arrest System (FAS): The basic components of a FAS are a full-body harness, a shock-absorbing tether that attaches to the tree stand safety line, and a suspension relief strap. The FAS should be used right from the moment your feet are off the ground and until they are back on the ground.
• Use a Haul Line: Never climb with a firearm or bow in your hand. Use a haul line to bring up or lower your gear making sure your firearm/bow is unloaded and is pointing down.
• Practice: Learn how to securely attach the tree stand at ground level and gradually go higher. Always use 3 points of contact with your arms and legs while climbing in or out of the tree stand, and don’t loosen your grip until you are sure your stand is secure.
• Get a Physical: Scouting for the right location to place your tree stand involves a lot of legwork as does climbing in and out of the tree stand. It is a good idea to get a physical evaluation to make sure your knees and hips are in good shape.

Dr. Frisch is a specialist orthopedic surgeon focusing on minimally invasive hip and knee joint replacement as well as regenerative treatments for enhanced healing. He believes in creating a very personalized experience with the highest level of service. For all appointments & inquiries, please contact our offices located in Rochester, River District, and Tawas City, MI.