Tree Stand Alternatives For Hunting In 2025

Although tree stands give camouflage, some people use wind and don’t want to stay put in one place. There might also be other reasons, like terrain (unsuitable for tree stand), excessive weight, and noise it may create.

Worry not; if you don’t want a tree stand, there are several other options you can opt for to hunt big bucks and elk while staying out of sight. We will discuss the best possible options for bow hunters and rifle shooters. We will consider other gadgets you may need using these hunting stand alternatives.

Hunting Tree Stand Alternatives

Here is a list of alternatives one can use as per terrain, hunting environment, and equipment type:

1. Hunting tower stand
2. Tree Saddle for hunting
3. Ground Blind
4. Still hunting with reliable optics

1. Tower Stand As Alternative To Tree Stand

A tower stand is an elevated stand that does not need a tree. It has 4 legs and needs plain terrain to stand in equilibrium. It comes with an attached ladder and is usually made of metal. This is great for private hunting property owners who can set it up before a food plot.

Tower stands give more visibility and space than general climbers or lock-on stands. It gives a 360-degree view, a perfect vantage point, and a shooting rail for rifle hunters. I personally tested these and got several deer last season.

One of the cons of towers for hunting is their setup. It requires at least 2 individuals to erect them up and place them in a place for the whole season. Moving it is not easy, and may need a quad bike. 

This option suits you only if you have hunting land with a well-developed food plot and a nearby water source. You will also need a quad bike and a budget of at least $500.

2. Tree Saddle For Hunting

Just like a tree stand, a tree saddle needs a tree. They are more portable and versatile because any sturdy, live tree with branches can be used. Hunters often use bow and arrow to hunt while hanging up in a tree. Similar to a tower stand, it provides a 360-degree view but little comfort.

Young hunters who travel on public land often use saddles to camouflage themselves in a perfect spot above deer trails or water sources. Eventually, big bucks do come towards them. 

Saddles are inexpensive but have a lower comfort level than all other hunting methods. Moreover, it has gradually become obsolete because you still need to carry climbing sticks, a foot platform, a saddle, and a necessary safety rope(lineman rope).

3. Ground Blind For Hunting

Most of us who know tree stands and their usage are familiar with ground blinds. These are the first options to consider when purchasing a hunting stand because there is no learning curve and no safety risk.

Ground blinds have been one of the best, affordable, and comfortable options for various bow and rifle hunters over the past decades. However, scent-proofing should not be overlooked when stalking deer in the ground blind.

Ground blinds are relatively cheap; the best option is under $150. It is quick to set up, easy to move, and provides necessary camouflage. This could be your go to choice for hunting big bucks in the upcoming season.

4. Still Hunting With Reliable Optics

Hunting deer while on foot needs careful consideration. This includes mapping the area before hunting season. You should know water sources, bedding zones, food and feed areas, and deer trails. Setting up a trail cam would be good for monitoring deer activity without spooking them. 

Still hunting is helpful in both public and private lands, and only experienced, skilful individuals can hunt a perfect bif buck while deceiving its smelling senses.

It is better to start monitoring the area and stalking deer before the season arrives. This way, you will better understand your surroundings, concealment opportunities, and routes to reach desired spots.

You will need several gadgets, including binoculars, a rangefinder, scent-proofed camouflage clothes, and rattling antlers/deer calls. Still hunting is only recommended if you have previous experience and know what you are doing. 

Beginners can’t track deer easily. Although this method is less expensive, you will need a lot of knowledge and experience to land a big buck and fill your freezer.

Conclusion

Hunting is a sport, and there are many ways you can win. The strategy should be as per your liking and comfort level. Based on that, we have given all the options that can be alternatives to tree stands for hunting. 

To summarise, you can opt for a tree saddle for hunting (ignoring comfort), ground blind with sufficient safety and ease, the tower stands (if you own a hunting land), or hunt without any of these on foot.

Hunting is not a quick-win game; you will need a lot of courage, patience, and good strategy to win against mighty intelligent bucks.