So I realized today that my stand it completely blocked by a 20 foot maple sapling that I though was going to loose is leaves mu

[deadgoon]

So I realized today that my stand it completely blocked by a 20 foot maple sapling that I though was going to loose is leaves much sooner. Is is wrong of me to chop it down right in the beginning of the season or will this throw the deer off?

[99explorer]

Provided you have the legal right to cut the tree down, go right ahead and don't worry about spooking the deer.
I once built a permanent tree blind and cut out some shrubs in the area.
The following day, there was a sapling nearby with a fresh rub that was not there the day before.

[FirstBubba]

Thirty minutes after that tree hits the ground, deer will probably ve nibbling on it!
Tain't gonna hurt a thing.

[beers123]

I am the other way on this. I say cut a few of the limbs that will provide you a shot. I personally like a cover tree in front of my stand. I will cut the limbs to give me 2 lanes to shoot through and leave the rest. It will help to conceal your movements for your bow or gun a lot better.

[themadflyfisher]

I'm like beers123. I usually set up a stand behind a tree to break up my profile. If positioned right you don't really lose a shooting lanes but gain a lot of cover. Also if the property isn't yours Definitely get permission to cut the tree and if it's public/state land, be careful even trimming the branches!

[themadflyfisher]

I'm like beers123. I usually set up a stand behind a tree to break up my profile. If positioned right you don't really lose a shooting lanes but gain a lot of cover. Also if the property isn't yours Definitely get permission to cut the tree and if it's public/state land, be careful even trimming the branches!