Best does not imply but rather specifies- one. Now, I know that there isn't only one trick of the trade that makes us successful because obviously there are many used in combination that do. However, if you had to pick one to contribute to this thread, what would it be? If everyone pitches in one, eventually we will get a nice collection of the best of the best.

Mine is one that I learned a few times already but had to learn again this year... Never discount any noise in the woods as not being deer. This year during the gun opener, I arrowed a buck. 2 min later I heard a "squirrel running back and forth and in circles". When the "squirrel" showed up under my stand I wasn't ready resulting in a missed opportunity.

What's yours?

If you have a good thing going, be persistent and don't be too quick to give up on it; good things often take time.

Remain motionless, as an incoming deer will pick you off!
Remember, you most likely won't see the deer the doesn't walk bye you.

Meaning...
Imagine a deer just about ready to come into your setting, maybe an oak flat or a field edge?
He stands almost motionless while scanning and scent checking for 10 or 15 minutes behind some bushes,
before making his way into your view.
You are unaware of his presence...
Unfortunately you have an itch or a mosquito that your swatting away and he sees you.
He then turns around, never to be seen by you, and walks away.
~ The damaging factor may not be that day's sit, it may be an education for the deer for the rest of the season.
* This also goes hand in hand with scent control.

Be there.

Dont eat yellow snow

Spend as much time hunting as possible.

You have zero chance if you are not hunting!

Dan

Be a mobile hunter and carry your setup in the woods each time and tear down each time, and always hunt with the wind in your favor. Also dont waste your $$ on scents, lures, urines, etc

Be PATIENT!! The more time on stand equalsmore deer seen/shot opps.

Be Optimystic. I think I am a great Elk hunter, and have been lucky enough to kill several good bulls. They have always been in my element! But when I got stationed in MIchigan, Whitetail became a new thing! I took my licks like the rest of you. And I learned! Took me one season of learning before I could catch up with a good buck.

The advice I have gained from this site has helped me tremendously! Thanks everyone!

Hunt as much as you can, the more you are there the more opportunity you have.