Yeah I left the wind portion out as that should be a common rule that in a guide would be made first. Hunt the wind, hunt the wind, hunt the wind. When I mentioned wind I was referring to light winds ups to a certain knot. I dont see much deer movement with winds steadily above 25 knots. Winds below that I will still see some. Now you may still see some deer in areas moving with the higher winds but most I see are too skittish at that point because they are having issues smelling and hearing.

Now with lighter winds that are variable are another issue with windage. I have seen sitting in a stand leaves falling a hundred yards out falling to the east. But when I look behind me the leaves are falling to the west but where I was in the stand my indications showed to the east as well. Variable winds can be a pain and give notice to a deer without hunters realizing it. Thermals can fall into this category as well.

My hope was to collaborate these things and figure out some general advice for new members. We all know prime times are in the morning or before sunset. Weather for me does play a role but if you can hunt all the time then more power to ya. I think others though have limited time and finding an optimal time period could be beneficial.