I can't say that I've bow hunted much on public ground, but I do run into alot of deer in the Fall of the year when I'am out turkey hunting. Seems they both like the same White Oak acorns. As long as I'am smart enough to stay out of the woods during rifle season I very seldom run into other hunters. Thats why I'am so excited about getting back into bowhunting. Very little hunting pressure after the first few weeks.