Stopping tree stand thieves

I'm putting up 3 tree stands in an area I've never hunted before. Word is, there's a lot of stand stealing out that way. Here's my question: Is there any thing I can do besides locking them on? Any proven suggestions are welcome.

 

I've had stands stolen that were even locked on. The best thing I can tell you is stop hunting the deer and shoot the thieves. There is nothing worse then planning on huntiong somewhere,getting out in the dark and your stand is gone.

 

Take your steps out with you.

 

Buy a climber....and carry it in/out with you. 100% effective against thieves.

 

Yeah risky buisness if you know there is theft there. If you must only thing to do like the others stated lock it up and take the sticks or pegs. Good luck.

 

Yep, thought of that one as well. Make it as difficult and possible for them is my theory.

 

I have several lock ons that are API. They have the cam buckle and there is a hole that a long hasp lock can go through thus locking the cam so it can't be opened. I bought 6 foot double eye aircraft cables from aubucion and spray painted them black. I pass one around the tree and through the frame of the stand then up to that lock which goes through the cam buckle. The stand is locked by the strap buckle and also by the cable which can be cut with really big bolt cutters but not easily. Since doing it this way I haven't lost a stand and I hunt mostly pub lands.

 

words of wisdome there, I always do this if im hunting where other hunters are and have never had a problem. It also helps keeping unwelcome hunters from hunting out of your stand to

 

Just put it this way! If they want it they will get it! I had a cable lock on mine and they still got it. There is nothing that you can do unless you can watch them all the time!

 

I always carry out the bottom 2 sticks when I hunt out of my lock-on (and it is even on private land).

 

taking the steps out is the best, the cable lock will work till they come back the next time with a hatchet and cut the thing off....happened to my buddy last year, man was he pissed!

 

This sounds a little weird but if you leg bolt it the tree most people will leave it alone.

 

Had one LW stand stolen after leaving it in the afternoon. Dad figured he would be back in the am, why bring it out. Well, he was back...stand was gone. Last time we left a stand in the woods. Carry everything out all the time.

 

Thanks for all your advice. I have a plan of attack now, I'll let you know how it goes. Good hunting all!