I find that 98% comes from the one going hunting. You can get some good general information, at times, but every sq. mile is different and no one has experience on every sq. mile. Plus no one will give their favorite sq. mile or hunting stand. They're too hard to find to give up easily.

If scouting was easy, it'd be easy.

Fortunately, we have internet maps, today. If you learn to use them. There are areas where even locals won't use or hike. Not all hunters are the same. I plan to spend time studying maps, late winter/springtime.

Good luck.