Most definatley dont need a tree stand but they are very helpful! my grandpa has arthritis in his wrists and hands, so climbing up into a tree stand for him is out of the question! he has hunted on the ground for the last 6 years, and killed 11 GREAT DEER on the ground! if you are going to hunt on the ground i sugest getting a pop up tent! go to dicks sporting goods or cabelas, they have them from anywhere between 60-125 dollors! cheaper than any tree stand! http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2468683&cp=2367824.2292572 .2292683&parentPage=family&searchId=229257 2that link is the one my grandpa has and he loves it! but like still hunter said, it is much easier to hunt from above, there is less to worry about! its great that you are watching the outdoor channel and versus, to pick up on tips, but you dont really see anything about scouting, and setup tips from those shows! I suggest for helping with scouting, stand setup tips, and general deer info that will help you, go with a educational dvd, and some good books!

good luck!