Hunting state land this year

[Nantahala Nut]

I too am hunting public land for pretty much the first time this year.  I think scouting is the key.  The old cliche of going where others wont is definitely true.  Thats where the deer go when they get pushed. Thats where they tend to feel most comfortable moving during the day time as well. The mountain I used to hunt in PA was the same.  All the hunters at the bottom came in and pushed them right up to us.  
I have concentrated my scouting on travel corridors. Specifically saddles in the ridges.  Last week I kicked one out of a saddle I found on Google maps with the topo view.  That deer was right where I thought they were traveling.  
I dont think you need to get a tree stand if its not in the budget or you dont want to lug it around.  Ive hunted from the ground my whole life and done well.  I would recommend some form of 3d camo since you cant build brush blinds.  I am working on making one out of one of those die cut real tree camo blinds.  Cheap and effective and lightweight.

[59Alaskan]

I too have noticed a trend of deer activity mid-day (not in rut) on public land that is pressured.  They do pattern people.

[Mryan2176]

Thanks for all the tips guys. I am starting to look forward to hunting the big woods. I did a scouting trip a week ago and was surprised at the amount of deer sign. The deer are definitely there, and I have a few nice spots picked out. My plan is to stay somewhat mobile and go to the out of the way places. I've found loads of sign in a few of these spots already. LB you are definitely right,  this is for sure going to be an awesome learning experience. I found some not so easy to get to spots loaded with white oaks and deer sign that are giving me high hopes. One of them is gonna take my canoe to get too. I also ended up getting permission to hunt some private land locally, but I'm still camping and bowhunting on state land for my vacation. I realize it's important for me to learn to hunt this more than anything, because no one can stop me from hunting it. Also, I like an adventure, and this should be one. The woods are untouched and
There is plenty of land to go around. Seems to be plenty of deer as well. One of the spots I've picked is in the really thick stuff and is heavily traveled. It is between 2 different food sources and quite a hike, but i have high hopes for it. I wanna thank you guys for the pep talk and great advice, this should be a great.season.
Matt.