I hunt a small tract of land, approximately 100 acres. Deer will return to a hunting area if there is good cover and close food supply. Also, hunting traffic and other outdoor activities can play a big role. I've seen deer return year after year. As mentioned above, the rut will bring in some new faces and some will leave, usually if you see a big buck, you can pattern him early in the year, but as the rut and eventually winter sets in, he may have moved on. But, if luck is with him, chances are that he may return the following year. Just my own observation. Good luck.