How you scout public land?

[GemHunterX2]

I started hunting public land when I moved away from my family's private spot.
Last season, I got skunked because of all the crowds!
Now, I'm using topo maps to find hidden areas and marking safe zones to avoid other hunters.
It's tough but rewarding when you find a quiet spot.
I'd love to know how you scout public land. What's your trick for staying safe out there?

 

[Phillips673]

From private to public land change game that no deer from crowds hurt but topo maps mark spots turn to good.Topos show paths as you said to skip full trails last time. Hunters map them phone now with onx layer lines and ways for quiet go.Points mark safe roads over blind walks hit hunters the gps marks show full but own marks change path smooth without wrong meet. They lead clear on app land not old paper.You can walk light 20 pounds for full day but boots hold mix. Maps do not fail on hard ground.But crowd miss hard early easy with phone look once layers go right. Road far counts too long from cars hide you deep unlike side parks full hunters.So alone spots or skip groups. Work the look. Safe trick is hunter orange hat always see.

 

[Blackpanther]

Hunting public land's tough with all the crowds. I use topo maps, mark safe zones, and hunt early or late. I always let someone know where I'm at

 

[DR505]

From private to public land change game that no deer from crowds hurt but topo maps mark spots turn to good.Topos show paths as you said to skip full trails last time. Hunters map them phone now with onx layer lines and ways for quiet go.Points mark safe roads over blind walks hit hunters the gps marks show full but own marks change path smooth without wrong meet. They lead clear on app land not old paper.You can walk light 20 pounds for full day but boots hold mix. Maps do not fail on hard ground.But crowd miss hard early easy with phone look once layers go right. Road far counts too long from cars hide you deep unlike side parks full hunters.So alone spots or skip groups. Work the look. Safe trick is hunter orange hat always see.

You lost me...

 

[krstn.jv]

I like to layer topo maps with satellite images to really get a sense of the terrain. It's great how much you can spot by combining the two. I always keep an eye out for those steep elevation changes, thick cover, or those water sources that are a bit tough to get to.