hunting cedar thickets

[Missouri CK]

I've found a nice narrow run way that is lined by thick 8-10 ft cedar trees.  My game camera is showing consistent movement patterns of does and bucks through this area.

I've been thinking about using my double bull blind or just using a ghillie suit and sitting on the ground but the trees are thick enough that I'm afraid I won't be able to see the deer until they are right on top of me.  

I guess I could buy a tripod stand  but I really don't want to spend that kind of money until I learn a little more about the area.  All I need is to be about 5-6 feet up in the air and I could peak over the edge of the cedars.  

Any suggestions?

Chris

[ductape]

I have a large cedar tree that is positioned about 17 yards from a very active trail. I cut out an area in the shape of an upside down v in the  tree and cleared just enough of the branches that I can see out down the trail. This gives me great cover and I can break off a few small twigs when I enter to give me help on cover scent. Good luck!!

[Hot Hap]

Summit predator pod? Hap

[doctari]

I also am planning on hunting a cedar area where I have seen some rubs. There is a mix of hardwoods that I should be able find one for my climbing stand. A nice little creek runs though the area also. I will be hunting there soon 10/10/08 for a week or so. I am a bit excited, will set up my 12x17 walltent with wood stove. Also taking my best buddy (comet) german shorthair pointer for some grouse and woodcock.

[ksbowman]

Can you work a step ladder in one of the trees by doing some trimming ? That might get you the elevation your after and I'll bet you have a step ladder around the house your not using.  Ben

[Charlie Lamb]

Chris... if elevation isn't an option go the other direction... pick and shovel. Should be able to see under the limbs so you know they are coming.

Of couse sooner or later they'll have to leave the cedars.

[Cody Cantrell]

Chris,
I use an old fuel tank stand with a crate wired to the top of it.  Works fantastic and it is only about 7 feet off of the ground and very stable.  I would be a little hesitant about the step ladder they tend to tip on uneven ground.  You may be able to find one of these stands at a farm sale or contacting some local farmers.  Good luck.

Cody

[Gatekeeper]

Chris,

This maybe more work then you want this close to hunting season.

If you have access to old telephone poles or if you can find a fairly straight junk tree, you could auger a hole in the exact location you want a stand and drop the pole or tree trunk in the hole, cement it in place and have a stand location catered to your specs. The pole or tree trunk wouldn’t have to be more than 14’ in length. This would give you 3 or 4 feet underground and 10 – 11 above allowing you to get up high enough with a little leftover to rest your back against.

[Tater John]

I use ductape's method.

With a pair of hand pruners and folding saw, always on my person, I can cut back to the truck , clear limbs to see trail and likely approaches within minutes. The fastest way to disappear at point blank range without going though a bunch of work and best way to get a shot at 3 paces I know of.fwiw

Rusty

[John3]

I would try to set up close to where the deer come out of the cedars. Build a natural blind and back into it. I've had great ground success letting the deer walk "past" me; then shooting.

John III

[overbo]

I once hunted one of those thickets and never could figure out why I wasn't having any sucess.Then durring the off season I set off smoke bombs in there to try to find what the wind dose.I sure figured out my problem.The smoke stayed as high as the lower limbs  and drifted that way for some distance.
I agree w/ John III on this one