I've always opted out on the screens, but it was suggested on a blind video that you always use the window screens. In the past i would just find a good treetop to set up in and brush really well, the deer didn't seem to mind it, but they would get skittish if it wasn't brushed really well. I know horses get spooked when they see a hole, like the end of a culvert or such, I guess deer are the same way.