I am a newbie deer hunter, archery, using public land for the first time. I am aware that if you see another hunters tree stand up, you should avoid using it. However, what about this scenario: I was scouting picking spots, and the best potential spot I found really only had one possible tree to put a stand. I look up at the tree and there is no stand, only screw in tree steps, and only the upper half of them. I have no clue when such a person would hunt with these. It could be months. We have four months for archery. I know there will be varied answers, but this is a "what would you do" sort of question. Thanks in advance.
guessing that screw in steps are illegal on public in your area? So whoever left them there was out of regs so really doesn't have a leg to stand on ethically. I would use the tree, but remove the steps if possible. Get a step wrench (they're like $20 on Amazon I think) if they're really in there. That way JIC a warden/CO strolls by, you don't get jammed up.
You're right they're not allowed. That is a good point. I go to these places to be left alone. I just don't want to get into it with some moron... Thanks for your advice.
Well if you take down those illegal steps and he comes back to see you with your steps sitting in the tree with his steps no where to be seen...how would he know if you or someone else took them?
Also a good point. However, I am hunting on opening day so, it probably would be a fair assumption it was me.
Screw in steps on state/public/federal land here is ILLEGAL, cant penetrate more than 1/2 inch is what the regs say (indiana) ..
Why not make it simple and call your local DNR and ask. They may want the coordinates so they can take the steps out. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
