Where to start.....

First of all, you are on the right general track for this season. By that I mean you are right to do as much preliminary work OUT of the woods as possible when this close to the season.

When you do go into the woods this close to season, which we must do of course, be as scent concious as if you were hunting. Shower, spray down and touch as little as possible while scouting. Your hands carry LOADS of scent.

What type of land are you hunting? Big woods? Farmland? Suburbia? Each will have a different approach.

First and foremost, try to identify the bedding areas. This is far more important than the food source which tends to attract more novices for obvious reasons. Your best strategy is to identify travel funnels and pinch points between the dining room and the bedroom. Unhurried whitetails are inherently lazy and will generally take the easiest route so long as they feel safe. A low spot on a ridge, a hole or low spot in a fence, the easy way across a ditch or creek deserve your attention.

Take note of the prevailing winds and try to visualize where the deer ought to be when you approach your stand. I always have a small breats feather of some species suspended from a piece of dental floss on me. In season, it's on the end of my bow stabilizer. Take note of how the wind plays according to the weatherman but also be sure to observe how that plays out at your stand and on your way in.

If you concentrate on bedding, food, structural funnels and wind you will be well on your way. Some stuff, you'll just learn by being out there but hopefully something here will help you get a start.

Most of all, never be afraid to ask for advice here. There are some really good, experienced hunters here that are willing to share