BigBuck28.. I think it's a great question and I'd like to hear more about this from some of our other members.

I for one just started using the wind to my advantage about 2 full deer seasons ago, so I am no expert, but I am learning quickly. My first mature buck fell on the ground this last November while using a little wind advantage. As far as thermals, I think they are important to understand but tougher to hunt with.

I try to set up where a buck wants to enter or leavea field.. downwind or upwind of it.. depending on the situation. I hunt crosswind, that is to say, a wind notreally right for my hunting spot and notreally right for the buck either. Since I started doing this I have been closer to more bucks than at any other time during my hunting career. Like I said, it finally paid off in late November of this past season with a mature buck who came on a crosswind and eventually got downwind.. but it was too late.

..incidentally.. he is the buck in my avatar..