I take it you are doing a self-guided hunt?

Deer densities are low up here in northern Maine, but if you find a good area then the hunting could be good. There are vast stretches that are virtually deerless, with pockets of higher deer densities here and there. If you won't be able to do any preseason scouting then you'd better wish for good tracking snow. Snow always helps, but is even more important if you are hunting "blind" so to speak. Riding the roads looking for tracks is a common method, but the deer seem to realize this and often avoid crossing the roads. I would suggest scouting for sign along major waterways as a starting point. If you are comfortable in big woods then get as far away from any roads as you can. You just might find the track of a real brute that isn't used to being hunted. That's some basic advice and I'll stop there to avoid writing a book. You've already done some good reading which will help to prepare you for the hunt. Good luck to you next year, and don't get lost