I hunt a WMA here in La. and you just have to get there earlier than the next guy. The WMA book states that no spot can be reserved , it' s first come first serve. I never use ribbons to mark my way in. I use a etrex gps to go in and out. The actual tree I put stand on I usually mark with a couple of those flourescent lighted tacks. And if after all that I always have another place or two to go hunt.