Another thought
Never too late to use Trail Cameras.
Once you find a buck, then he's in your sights. Keep relocating your camera to 'follow him around'.
Eventually you will be able to identify his bedding habits.
Use scent proof clothing, rubber boots, scentless soap, etc. so as to NOT affect his habits or at least, to have as minimal an impact on those habits.
Now is prime time to discover large buck habits with that wonderful piece of technology. Even if only for next years' endeavors!