I make many natural ground blinds. Some times it is best to go with the Kiss priciple on this (kiss=keep it simple stupid). First play the wind. Find a natural structure you can build on, such as a small tree that has caught tumble weeds; small trees with fallen brances; brush pilles, etc.. You dont want to build up much stuff that was not there the day before, this will tend to spook the deer. Use tumble weeds, branches, grasses, etc to build around the structure. I have also set in tall grass with nothing but my camo. and the natural grass as a cover. As long as you are still, read the deers head when they come in, just about any thing will do. Last year I stalkded a deer for about a mile. I set up to where he would cross in front of me. I didnt judge his movement very well, because when he came out of the brush, he was only 50 yards from where I was. I was squated down on a dirt road in plain sight. I simple stayed as still as posible. When he looked away I set my gun and then took the shot.

One last thing, which is very important, Make sure you have something behind you. Breaking up your pattern is one of the most important things.

I love natural blinds too! I know of a beautiful spot (my own little secret place) in the nearby state forest here in VA, where there is a HUGE fallen oak tree (thank you Hurricane Isabel!) and it also took down a cedar tree. Huge forked branches all over the place and pieces of cedar all over the place. Can' t ask for better location! It overlooks a shallow stream bed too, which is about 75-80 yards away.

I have an Ameristep grizzly climbing tree stand, but I am always a little nervous with it. In fact, I don' t want to use it if I don' t have to.... Case in point: This past weekend, I was out with it (went hunting with " dpv" from this forum) and had the bottom platform go " OOPS!" and slip downwards an inch or two!! [] Thank God for safety straps, harnesses, bungie cords, etc... I mean, it' s okay and all, but it scared the $*@!&# outta me!! Rule #1 with climbing tree stands should be: NEVER put 95% of your body weight in the seat/backrest, and 5% on the bottom foot platform! I know... I know... I know what you' re saying... {slaps forehead and says " DUH!" }

Anyway, if you find a beautiful natural blind, use it to its fullest advantage! Scent control and wind direction are crucial too.

Butch