i was just curious how many people use topographic maps to help them locate deer in their areas. i have heard that they provide hunters clues where deer might be, but what do you look for in a topo map that will hint that deer might be located in a certain area? any input would be great guys, thanks in advance

Features of the terrain, you can identify ridge lines, funnels, choke points, water, possible bedding areas, etc.

I'm surprised that this day and age that hunters even use topo's, what with the GPS cheat. I still use my 8 digit co-ordinates, I love the challenge, and keeping the skeeeellls sharp! Reminds of the time that I was sending newbies down the commo shop for spools of "contour" line.

There is no gps cheat. They do not replace a map and compass. A map shows you terrain, water, valleys, funnels, ridgelines...
Five minutes with a map and you know more than two days random wandering- not that you dont need to hoof it. It lets you plan your hoofing. I do use a gps for plotting stand sites, distances, etc. but it is no where near as helpful or versatile as a map and compass...especially once the batteries die, or it doesnt triangulate due to steep terrain or tree cover.

I have never used a GPS outside the military, learned my skills "before" the GPS was introduced to the military.

Absolutely I use them! Along with corresponding aerial photos and groundpounding. I've found each one adds unique information that the others don't and all are equally invaluable.

I have recently been using google earth. it sure gives a good luck and perspective to allow me to know where I am going to be heading and what I really want to see.

Definitely use topo and arial photographs both to "scout". Carry both , plus compass, and GPS.

Topo map and compass are a regular part of my hunting gear.

I guess I will have to explain this. I realize there are some who have very keen and cultured "skills" but it seems something is being overlooked.

A GPS is a great tool, fine indeed. But what a GPS can't do is show you a good, large chunk of land all at once and let you see how the lay of the land actually is and how it works together.

Try to do that with a 3" X 3" screen.