I'm just about right in there with whackmaster. I only draw right before I know I can shoot. Usually thats about a 5 - 10 second hold. I practice the same way. I know guys who when practicing hold on the target for a LONG time. From my experiences, a shot oppurtunity at a deer unfolds very quickly, you must be ready to draw, aim, and release in a manner of seconds.

Hunt the thickets