Treestand Fails Aren’t Funny When They’re Yours
The videos on social media may be hilarious, but this is the biggest risk with hunting deer.
A video uploaded by user @redneck_bowhunter on October 6, 2025, has rapidly gained traction, depicting a dramatic incident during a deer hunting trip. The footage, captured from an elevated perspective, shows a hunter identified as "Jake" seemingly falling from a tree stand into dense undergrowth. The person filming immediately reacts with alarm, calling out, "Jake, you all right?" to which the individual on the ground responds, "I'm down here." The cameraman then urges, "Don't move, man, I'm coming down." The video, which has amassed over 3 million views, 75,400 likes, and 25,800 shares, has sparked considerable discussion online. While many viewers expressed initial concern for the hunter's safety, others have speculated that the incident may be staged. The presence of a "Sora" overlay, often used with AI-generated content, and the controlled nature of the fall have led some to believe it is a prank. Regardless of its authenticity, the video has inadvertently highlighted the inherent risks associated with hunting from tree stands. Safety experts consistently advise hunters to use full-body harnesses and ensure proper attachment to the tree at all times when ascending, descending, or occupying a tree stand. "Tree stand accidents are a leading cause of serious injury among hunters," stated a representative from a national hunting safety organization. "Always use a safety harness and have a plan for emergencies." The video serves as a stark visual reminder of these crucial safety protocols, whether the fall was real or simulated.
The videos on social media may be hilarious, but this is the biggest risk with hunting deer.
