I know that over hear in Louisiana that most places are so thick that if you wouldn't bait you would hardly see a deer.
I've heard this argument used alot. I hunt in NY I know people that huntin the Adrondacks and Catskills that kill deer consistently with out bait. They are both large and thick and no bait can be used.
You also can't tell me there's no difference between a food plot or a stand of oaks and a solitary feeder.
Having said that, if you enjoy hunting over bait and it's legal, have at it. I would never try and get it legal in NY. From what I've read in other states it creates alot of problems on public land and between neighbors.