How to Leave a Stand Without Spooking Deer

Hunting from a stand provides the benefit of concealment in a comfortable position. Leaving the stand is necessary for bathroom breaks and hot meals, but exiting presents a risk when deer are present. Spooking the deer means the animals present are not likely to return to the stand in the immediate future. This does not ruin the stand for hunting because other deer will cross paths with the stand in the future. Leaving the stand without spooking the deer is not always possible, but several steps are useful to minimize your presence.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape
  • String
  • Thick socks
  • Soft clothing
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make your stand quiet by padding rails and greasing hinges before the season. Wrap a layer of tape around metal steps to prevent clanking sounds and absorb sounds.

    • 2

      Clear a path on the forest floor to encourage a quiet escape. Rake away leaves and sticks before the season to create an entry and exit path with minimal noise. Use the dedicated path to walk quietly and avoid detection.

    • 3

      Do not exit the stand until the wind is at your advantage. Hang a piece of string from the stand to monitor the wind direction at ground level. Wait until the wind will push your scent away from the deer, and make an exit.

    • 4

      Cover your boots with a thick pair of socks, and wear clothing made of soft material such as fleece. The soft materials reduce noise while you sneak away from the stand.

    • 5

      Spook the deer from a location other than the stand. Deer will return to the area but will check the stand for a hunter and run if your location is marked. Have a friend pick you up at a designated time, and spook the deer intentionally. Your stand position remains concealed, and deer in many areas are accustomed to being spooked by foot and vehicle traffic.

    • 6

      Place the stand in the forest to create a covered escape path. Placing the stand on the edge of a clearing puts you in the open and increases the chance of being caught. Move the location 20 feet back in the forest, and use the trees to shield your visual presence from the deer.