Ground blinds, explained
Hunting from the ground, and what to check first.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. It does not change what we recommend. Affiliate Disclosure
What a ground blind is
A ground blind is a shelter you sit in at ground level. Some are portable fabric shelters; others are built from natural cover. A duck blind is a blind set up for waterfowl hunting.
Staying on the ground
The Treestand Manufacturers Association says that if you do not have the ability to recover or escape from a harness, hunt from the ground.
Hunter orange and blinds
IHEA-USA says most states require hunters to wear hunter orange clothing for certain hunting activities. Your state's regulations say whether orange rules apply in or on a blind. Check your state wildlife agency's current regulations.
Long, cold sits
Sitting still in the cold calls for layers. The CDC says to wear several loose layers and stay dry. Layering for cold hunts
Where you can put one
Rules on blinds on public land differ by place. Check with the land manager and your state wildlife agency.
Sources: Treestand Manufacturers Association, Treestand Safety Guidelines (PDF); IHEA-USA, Hunter Education Standards (PDF); CDC, Preventing Hypothermia.
FAQ
General information only. Hunting laws, seasons, licenses, and hunter orange rules are set by each state; check your state wildlife agency's current regulations before you hunt, and take the hunter education course your state offers. If you hunt from a tree stand, wear a full-body fall arrest harness system every time you leave the ground, including while climbing up and down, follow the Treestand Manufacturers Association's Treestand Safety Guidelines and the maker's instructions, and have a plan for rescue. Tell someone where you will be and when you will return. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: blaze orange
Be seen. Check your state.
