Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD Review

First Thoughts on the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD

The Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD promises a simple and effective solution for feeding wildlife. As someone who’s spent years managing food plots and attracting game, I’m always on the lookout for low-maintenance options. The idea of a gravity feeder that straps directly to a tree intrigued me, particularly for those hard-to-reach spots where traditional feeders are impractical.

What drew me to the Treehugger was the need for a supplemental feed source in a swampy area I hunt. Dragging a traditional feeder through that terrain is a nightmare. A lightweight, easy-to-install option that I could fill with corn or attractant seemed like the perfect solution.

The Treehugger arrived in a simple box. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight, constructed of what seemed to be sturdy PVC. The integrated straps and buckle system looked straightforward enough. Compared to the metal tripod feeders I’m used to, this felt like a breath of fresh air in terms of portability. Other options I considered included traditional bucket feeders or even just scattering corn by hand, but the Treehugger’s promise of contained, gravity-fed dispensing and its easy install won me over.

I was cautiously optimistic. At this price point, I didn’t expect top-of-the-line construction, but I hoped it would be durable and functional enough to serve its purpose. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field and whether it would live up to its claims of easy setup and low maintenance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD deep in a swampy section of my hunting property. The ground was uneven, and the undergrowth was thick. Thankfully, the Treehugger’s lightweight design made it easy to carry to the chosen location.

Setup took less than five minutes as promised. I simply looped the straps around a mature oak, secured the heavy-duty buckle, and tightened. I filled it with about 50 lbs of corn to start. The initial concern was how well the PVC would hold up in direct sunlight. There were no immediate issues, and the unit seemed quite stable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks in the field, the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD has proven to be a mixed bag. The PVC material is holding up surprisingly well, showing no signs of cracking or fading despite exposure to sun and rain. However, the integrated straps have stretched slightly, requiring re-tightening every few weeks to maintain the feeder’s stability.

There are signs of wear around the dispensing area. Squirrels and raccoons have been particularly aggressive, gnawing at the plastic. It’s certainly not indestructible. Compared to my experience with metal feeders, the Treehugger requires more frequent monitoring for damage. However, the ease of setup and the ability to place it in remote locations still make it a valuable tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD

Specifications

• Capacity: 100 lbs. This is a substantial amount and allows for less frequent refills.

• Material: Long-lasting PVC. This promises durability, but the reality is that determined critters can still cause damage.

• Attachment: Integrated straps with heavy-duty buckle. These straps are the key to the easy setup.

• Design: Gravity feeder. It’s a simple but effective design.

• Feed Type: Compatible with corn, attractants, protein, and mineral. This versatility is a major plus.

These specifications translate to a user-friendly feeding system that’s easy to deploy and maintain. The large capacity reduces refill frequency, and the compatibility with various feed types allows hunters to tailor their attractant strategy. The PVC construction keeps the feeder lightweight and relatively weather-resistant.

Performance & Functionality

The Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD performs its primary function reasonably well. It dispenses feed consistently as the supply is depleted. However, the rate of dispensing can be affected by the size and type of feed, and clumping can occasionally occur, requiring a quick shake to dislodge.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and ease of deployment. The major weakness is its vulnerability to determined animals. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly feeder but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The PVC material is relatively sturdy, and the straps are reasonably strong. At first sight the Treehugger feels light in hand, making it easy to transport.

The design is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process. There’s virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Treehugger should last a few seasons. The PVC is weather-resistant, but it’s not impervious to damage from animals or harsh weather.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe it down occasionally to remove dirt and debris. Regularly check the straps for wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD is a standalone unit and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available directly from Wildgame Innovations.

However, users could potentially add a protective cage around the dispensing area to deter animals. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to the unique design of the feeder. The user might want to upgrade the straps for better durability.

Pros and Cons of Wildgame Innovations Treehugger 100 lbs Capacity Trubark HD