I agree with you 100% I enjoy running cameras and scouting I personally feel like I learn something new everytime I go in the woods.
Just caught up on this post. I couldn't agree more with Sheddinglight and Tynimiller, Justin, and some of the rest of you. If I couldn't put at least a little bit of blood sweat and tears into it I think I would lose interest. The camaraderie aspect is also prevalent during those times. Putting stands up and checking cams with my buddies, putting our heads together to come up with new ideas and strategies... Actually I have to say I enjoy all that more than killing deer.
I can't do much prep as I hunt on a ranch a friend manages, so I am extremely limited but extremely grateful. My scouting comes in what I saw the last time I was out there and in the spring while turkey hunting. I am going to attempt a mock scrape in Oct and hope a buck takes it over by rut, but that is pretty much the extent of my prep. Again, I am not complaining because my only cost is gas, supplies, & a cheap hotel room. I can see where hunters get the enjoyment of the prep because they get to indulge in the passion while not in season, but that isn't always possible. So for those who can do a lot of prep, enjoy it. Some of us are envious.
