Scouting, for me is technically year round, but some times are emphasised greater. he one time that is not good, IMO, is 4 or 5 weeks just before the season. You should mininmize the amount of pressure and scent left behind, and the 'stir' in the woods so as not to spook deer, or at best alarm them of your presence. If it is a property that you are familiar with, unless there has been some major changes, you should already have the stands selected and just scout/hunt as you begin your season. If it is new property, then I scout by way of maps, or terrain via a quick walk through looking for 'funnels, edges, and food sorces, before I look for 'sign'.