I really think it has to do with the terrain that you hunt, as well as which way the wind is blowing. Where I hunt I am sorta stuck with trees everywhere and deer will have to usually get pretty close "within 25 to 35 yards" to get a shot off. Maybe just not comfortable enough to take a shot with such a small margin through the limbs. In that case I dont think smoking would be the best option. On the other hand I was getting mad because I had not seen any deer "while not smoking" and ended up smoking 2 cigs in a row and when I put the butt out. I ended up having a decent size buck come right in front of me at about 20 yards. I ened up getting a clean shot at around 30 yards. Yet the wind I guess was in my favor. Mainly in my face, but on the top of a ridge it sorta swirls a lot. I think if the wind is right, then you have a better chance. Someone told me on this site last week to think like a deer. I guess if I smelled something for the first time, I would be a little apprehensive about going near the smell. Then again I am not a deer and really am not sure what he or she thinks about the effects of smoking.