Which season are you scouting for? Bow? Rifle? Muzzle? For the rifle season here in Northern Minnesota, I have found that the best time to scout is the first two week's after the season. We usually get fresh snow, and it give's you a chance to see how they were acting during the season, when they were under pressure. I have also found that it pay's to stay out of any area that you intend to hunt for at least 2 weeks before the season.