How close is to close to bedding
 

Whats up guys I'm a new member and new to the sport of hunting. I have been putting in alot of time scouting here in MA and have followed some deer runs looking for stand locations but have ended up walking right up on deer beds. The deer were not there but im sure my scent remained after I left. Did I go to far and will I have pushed the deer out? How close is to close to set up near bedding. The woods are thick and no open feilds. So I am trying to hunt the paths from bedding to feeding, but I dont know how to exactly make out the feeding area. I think they are mostly eating acorns. How close should I set up my treestands this august.

Thanks

Jim

RE: How close is to close to bedding
 

Welcome to the boards! Your too close if you can't get in your stand without bumping deer! Now, in the morning, you may be able to get closer to the bedding areas and get set up because the deer should still be out feeding, but in the afternoon, just the opposite. If your looking to tag a good buck, then you need to be as close as possible in the afternoon, because he will be the last to leave the safety of his bed room.
Try to find a route to and from your stand that minumizes the chances of the deer seeing or smelling you, becuase if you bump them, they will change habits.
Leaving scent in the area this time of year shouldn't matter. That doesn't mean to make a habit of it, but now is a fine time to scout, but a better time would be right after hunting season is over.
Good luck this fall!!