Need some advice fellas...

[Jared D]

So I have done my scouting, and located a couple good spots... but now I need another tree stand (for my nephew). What I am looking for is a reasonably priced (~ $150) light climber.

Anyone have one that they love? Its gotta be comfortable enough for a 13 YO to sit in for 4 hours at a time... but not TOO comfortable that it causes naps.

I have never introduced a kid to hunting... so any tips? I am taking him to the range this weekend to practice practice practice (which sucks with current ammo prices)... and plan on showing him what I look for w tracks, trails, trees, etc when scouting out new spots. I also want him to sit through a couple bow hunts as an observer just to see if he wants to actually do this.

Looking for advice. Really want to get him the "itch," but not at the expense of his safety or an animals suffering. I was never taught by anyone, so not sure where to start.

[NY Bearhunter]

[QUOTE=Jared D;738621]So I have done my scouting, and located a couple good spots... but now I need another tree stand (for my nephew). What I am looking for is a reasonably priced (~ $150) light climber.

Anyone have one that they love? Its gotta be comfortable enough for a 13 YO to sit in for 4 hours at a time... but not TOO comfortable that it causes naps.

I have never introduced a kid to hunting... so any tips? I am taking him to the range this weekend to practice practice practice (which sucks with current ammo prices)... and plan on showing him what I look for w tracks, trails, trees, etc when scouting out new spots. I also want him to sit through a couple bow hunts as an observer just to see if he wants to actually do this.

Looking for advice. Really want to get him the "itch," but not at the expense of his safety or an animals suffering. I was never taught by anyone, so not sure where to start.[/QUOTE


Do yourself a favor and try him out in a groung blind first, save yourself alot of problems while he learns the ropes, let him grow into the sport.

[RWW]

unless your stuck on the climber I would opt for a ladder stand for someone just starting out. Have him go with you to set it up and understand the safety aspect. The climber can be a pain for anyone but could discourage someone new to it.

I have taken my 7 year old son for two years now using a double ladder stand. I let him start up it and I follow close behind and we both strap in. Get him a good pair eyes as it will change the landscape. I allow mine to bring his gameboy (sound off) as it passes the time when it is slow but boy does he light up when one comes in close.
He has been with me on two kills but mostly we watch. He enjoys it as do I and I am sure you will create some awesome memories that you both can share.
Best of luck and let us know how it works out!

[DropinBack]

If he is 13 he should be more then fine in a treestand, plus you will likely see more deer and closer deer out of a treestand so he will enjoy it more. I was hunting along in a treestand in 4th grade, so he should have absolutly no problem.

Taking him bowhunting before he actully shoots is a great idea...

Getting a climb in stand with screw in spikes or a ladder stand even if hes gun hunting may be abetter idea then a climber because it is much easier and quiter for someone unexperinced...

[weekender]

Jared, I second the ladder stand if it will work in your area. All the climbers that I like are about twice what you quoted to spend. Ladders are heavy but cheap. I just started using them in the last 5 years and really like them. They have their place for sure and most aren't made for deep woods one time adventures. My main advice would be invest if possible in the Hunter Safety System vest for fall restraint. I hunted many years without fall restraint but eventually paid the price in more than one fall, I'm lucky to be alive. The ground blind is another great idea for young hunters. It really helps conceal movement. You need to brush them in for most applications. Unless he is the "tree climbing" type of youngster, a climbing stand my not be the best choice for a first time trip in my opinion. I spent a ton of time climbing trees as a youngster and hunting from one came natural. To others that may not have spent time off the ground, it might be overwhelming.

[Jared D]

Ok, great responses. I am rethinking the climber now. I am really kind of excited to take him, as I always wanted to go when I was a kid, and no one would take me. I just don't want to overwhelm him or over complicate it. The gameboy will be allowed if he wants to bring it.

Do you think a 13 yo would be interested in seeing how we choose a spot (trails, tracks, bedding areas etc) or should I just put him in the woods and let him see some critters?

[NY Bearhunter]

Ok, great responses. I am rethinking the climber now. I am really kind of excited to take him, as I always wanted to go when I was a kid, and no one would take me. I just don't want to overwhelm him or over complicate it. The gameboy will be allowed if he wants to bring it.

Do you think a 13 yo would be interested in seeing how we choose a spot (trails, tracks, bedding areas etc) or should I just put him in the woods and let him see some critters?

My son has killed a few bear with his gameboy doing its thing , show him some game first let him feel that rush then, school him as his first season goes on.

[RWW]

Do you think a 13 yo would be interested in seeing how we choose a spot (trails, tracks, bedding areas etc) or should I just put him in the woods and let him see some critters?

Absolutely but I started my son with seeing them first. On the way in point out tracks, droppings, rubs, etc. After the season is over take him to look for sheds and point out feeding, bedding areas, and trails. That time over the year they are much easier to see anyway.
You will end up having more fun teaching then going alone.
Best of luck

[DropinBack]

Take him first... then teach him how to find em