Page Contents:
The Tree
The tree selected should be alive and healthy. In winter when leaves are down, a tree which has been dead a while can be identified by the lack of fine twigs at the ends of the branches in the canopy. Inspect the trunk to be sure it is not rotten. Leaning trees are a problem for stick climbing, but can be rope climbed, but we want a section of trunk which is fairly vertical at our hunting location.
The Crotch
When selecting a crotch to isolate using a Throwball for Rope Rigging, we need to select a one which is supporting a live branch and which is of adqequate size, strength and shape. A rule of thumb used by arborists is that in a Hardwood tree, the crotch should be at least as thick as our wrist. In Softwood tree, the crotch should be at least as thick as our upper arm. Note that if using a Basal Anchor SRT system, the crotch will be supporting DOUBLE the load, and so, we need something more significant.
Additionally, we do not want a crotch which is too narrow, which could give us trouble getting our rope caught. We also don’t want one with a horizontal branch, as this would allow our rope to pull away from the tree as we approached it, increasing the chance of a branch break.
This information is provided as a general guide. Different trees have different characteristics and the tree selection varies based on our geography. Climbers assume responsibility for their knowledge of the local trees and their characteristics and responsible for their own safety in selecting a tree and crotch.
Video Scenarios
See Playlist: Tree Selection
Tree and Crotch Selection Basics
Take a tour through a local forest and assess trees and crotches of various shapes, sizes and conditions.
Find the Tree in the Lane in the Spot
Too often, saddle hunters are looking for a tree that suits their climbing method rather than a tree that is in the right spot to hunt, and which provides natural shooting lanes. Learn to read the sign and choose your tree based on that assessment.
Widowmaker Causes Relocation
A “widowmaker” is a dead (or unstable) tree or branch in the canopy that could fall and end our adventures. It is important to look for hazards and avoid climbing in their path.
New Tree, Initial Climb and Setup
The same tree that was chosen and setup with a paracord preset in the prior video is climbed and prepared in this video.
Willow at Creek Crossing
For a deer hunter, optimal tree selection often involves climbing non-typical trees, some of which would not be compatible with other climbing methods. JRB demonstrates how a throwball and DSRT can be used to climb a complex weeping willow tree which sits an an optimal location to intercept deer as they cross the creek and head out to the fields at dusk.
Follow the Blood Trail to a New Tree
In this video, JRB explains how tracking a deer through the deepest part of the thicket enabled the discovery of a new tree. We can find a lesson and an opportunity in just about every trek through the forest.
Stay tuned for new content on this page!!