Videoing a Hunt Solo

[TKLambert]

With all the new technology out there, it seems there's a thousand ways to video your hunt now. I often hunt alone and have a tree arm for my hand held video camera to film hunts. I find myself not wanting to use it as much because of all the extra weight and set up time. Do any of you have any set ups you use for GoPro or smart phones in particular?

I've got a friend that has a Jackknife phone holder for his bow, but unfortunately it seems to move when he releases the arrow and it doesn't show the best footage on impact. Are there any smart phone tree mounts or systems you've engineered?

Thanks!

[Rhino]

Wish I could help but the weight of gear I carry to & from the stand is more of a concern for me, especially bowhunting. For that reason the only time I even try to video anymore is when I don't carry a weapon. Like you, I have tree mounts for my hand held video camera. There may be a tree or stand harness available for GoPro or smart phones but they would add more weight to my pack too. A buddy & I even have ~35 RT bowholders that we set in trees for bowhunting when we prep our stands in MO rather than pack one in and out each time we hunt. Obviously we're hunting private property.

Like your buddy, I have a friend that tried using a GoPro mount on his bow. Once the arrow is released you can forget getting quality footage. No chance to get impact footage and little chance at best to get after the shot footage. Understandable since almost every bowhunter's focus is on determining the quality of the hit and watching exactly where a deer travels after the shot until it's out of sight. It should be that way for maximizing your chances of recovery. After the shot I always want to know exactly where the last spot is I saw a deer and listen for where it's going beyond that spot and for the sound of a crash. Also, in the excitement of the moment you're far less likely to even think about holding your bow in a position to follow game with a GoPro mounted on it after the shot.