Yes, the apples kept the deer around. I've noticed this on my property and I've seen it while driving around in the early evening. Deer were always clustered under the apple trees. This year our apple crop was very bad - only a couple of trees produced and even then it wasn't much. This year the neighbor planted corn and the deer have been feasting on it. Also, this year we have a decent acorn crop. I plan on setting up about 50 yards into the woods from the edge of the corn - right near a couple of good oaks. I am also contemplating setting up where a major trail crosses the creek. The deer need to get a drink sometime...