RE: I am a relativley new hunter HELP
Welcome to the sport!
I am by no means an expert hunter, but maybe look at what the food sources are for the deer around your area. Are there corn/soybean fields surrounded by woods? If so, I'd set-up just inside the treeline so that you have a shot at the field where they come out to feed. Also, you said itwas very hot where you hunted...maybe find a secluded water hole or stream thathas lots of deer signs around (droppings, buckrubs, trails, etc.). The bad part about hunting on public land is that movement by other hunters tend to push deer around quite a bit, this can sometimes make their movement unpredictable. The biggest thing that helps though, is experience. Don't be afraid to get out there, and don't be discouraged if you don't have instant success.
Good Luck, and don't forget to send us a picture when you get that monster buck!