Got the opportunity to borrow a friend's ground blind for the upcoming deer hunting season. I'll be hunting public land and I'm

[AMM0]

Got the opportunity to borrow a friend's ground blind for the upcoming deer hunting season. I'll be hunting public land and I'm wondering if it's mandatory that the blind be placed in the area I want it ahead of time? Am I going to spook any deer from coming into my area with a new blind in the area? I don't want to run the risk of my blind being vandalized or stolen so I really don't even want to pack it in the night before. It's a small portable blind for 1-person.

[Chris Johnsrud]

You should always place a blind early and brush it in when hunting deer. Deer are very aware of their surroundings, and the slightest change will make them nervous. Turkeys on the other hand, will not shy away from a blind erected minutes previously.

[goosehunter13]

however, if it is just a small blind it might not matter. with white tails its hard to say.

[Bo]

I killed deer from a blind that I just put up last December, I have killed deer who were watching me take down my blind. I think it depends on the deer. Some are more aware of their surroundings, some may be just passing through. Sometimes it's just a matter of tossing a coin and choosing heads or tails.

[AMM0]

Thanks a lot, you guys. Judging from the bit of reading I've done online - it does sound like it's a toss up. I'm going to try and get out there bright 'n early the same day I hunt and brush it in as best as I possibly can.

[seadog]

It sounds like you chose well. Even though there's an advantage to setting up early so the deer get used to your blind, on public land, IMHO, the risk that someone will steal your portable ground blind changes the game. It's ... unfortunate ...(I could use a stronger word), but that's the sad truth. Happy hunting!

[Cgull]

I use pop up blinds and I also build ground blinds out of downed limbs, cedar boughs and even frame a plastic roof out of tomato stakes. These look natural, keep the rain out and not many would bother to steal or tear em down.

[6phunter]

I generally just try to blend in with natural surroundings,I'VE USED camo netting when hunting with a youth.Even if youre lucky and no one steals youre blind,youre telling other hunters you are in a scouted position ,some will set up near you. Be pliable and be able to adjust to wind change and other variables. good luck