Top 10 Tips for Using a Hunting Saddle Effectively

When you start hunting from a saddle, there’s a learning curve involved. To help you get the most out of your CRÜZR Saddle or any other hunting saddle, here are 10 essential saddle hunting tips to ensure you’re as efficient and comfortable as possible.

1. Be Prepared

After selecting the best saddle hunting setup for you, it’s important to spend time adjusting your saddle before heading out. The comfort of any hunting saddle comes from proper adjustment, so take the time to get familiar with your gear before climbing a tree.

2. Have Patience

No matter which saddle you choose, it won’t feel perfect the first time you use it. Experiment with different methods, such as adjusting rope angles and lengths, until you find what is most comfortable for your hunting style.

3. Try New Things

If something isn’t working, try a different approach. The adaptability of saddle hunting setups is vast. There is no “perfect” way to set up your CRÜZR saddle that fits everyone. Tinker with your setup until you find your best option.

4. Get Comfortable

Once you’ve dialed in your saddle adjustments, get comfortable with it. Swing around a bit, try different rope lengths, and find the best shooting position. Always be cautious of safety, but practice moving in the saddle to increase your comfort level.

5. Practice Regularly

Saddle hunting requires practice to perfect. Practice climbing trees, using your ropes, and shooting from your saddle. The more reps you do, the better prepared you’ll be when that big buck steps into range. Consistent practice will make you more efficient with your gear.

6. Choose the Right Tree

Some trees work better for saddle hunting than others. A straight tree with minimal branches is ideal, but don’t forget to consider your cover. When you’re saddle hunting, you’re hanging off the side of the tree, so having good back cover is crucial for staying hidden.

7. Stay Organized

As you refine your saddle setup, you’ll learn to streamline what you bring into the woods. Keep ropes tied up and minimized to avoid visibility and frustration. Simplicity is key. Facing the tree can help with organization and accessibility, making your hunting experience smoother.

8. Slow Down

Don’t rush the process. Whether you’re choosing a tree or setting up your gear, take your time. Spending more time practicing and perfecting your saddle hunting setup will pay off when you’re in the field.

9. Get Out and Hunt

One of the biggest advantages of saddle hunting is its mobility and versatility. It opens up more hunting spots than ever before. Remember, “You can’t kill ‘em from the couch.” Get out there, put your saddle to use, and take advantage of the saddle hunting benefits.

10. Stay Mobile

Hunting saddles were designed for mobility, so use them to their full potential. Explore new spots, cover more ground, and hunt different deer. Saddle hunting is about staying flexible and adaptable—use it as a tool for success in the woods.

These saddle hunting tips will help you become more efficient and comfortable with your gear. By spending time adjusting, practicing, and experimenting with your saddle hunting setup, you’ll increase your chances of success in the field.

– Conner Mobley, author

*This article has been edited from its original for style and clarity.