I've killed some deer hunting on the fly. Actually a higher percentage than when hunting pre-hung stands, maybe something to think about right there.

There have been times that I've just strapped a climber on and went walking to find a spot, and killed deer less than an hour later on an early afternoon hunt.

hunting prehung stands allows you to get in quicker, usually quieter, and is pre-scouted.

I've found that sometimes when hunting on the fly I tend to really overanalyze the setup, and picking the right spot takes a good amount of time; time loss and possible ground scent contamination that I DON'T want. Also have the issue of clearing shooting lanes.

Probably the main reason I don't do it more is that my API bowhunter and Ol' Man climbers aren't what I call perfect for this kind of hunt. Seem just a tad on the noisy side, I normally will just leave them at the tree. And steel climbing sticks aren't really portable either. I AM planning on making some changes in this area though.

I am planning on doing more walk-ins at public ground throughout the state in the future. I'll feel more pround of a doe on a crowded walk-in hunt than shooting a deer out of 'ole reliable' on private ground.