One pearl of wisdom that I've learned over the years is get the best (most comfortable) stand that you can afford. When I started out I'd buy the cheapest dinkiest tiniest stands solely because of cost, but quickly (after about 5 minutes into the first sit, usually) began to hate them. Being comfortable in a stand means less fidgeting and longer sits and makes you a better hunter. There are good stands at decent prices; you just have to keep your eyes open for sales, Craigslist, etc.
I'm no expert on scent control but if it's pretty flat where you're going, it might be best to just hunt the wind as best you can as opposed to putting your trust in the scent-lok suit. Your summit climber should be fine to use up in IN.
I wish I could weigh in on the stand selection/scouting piece, but I've only deer hunted the same single property for years...My thought would be since it's family land to get help from his folks who hunt it, and/or see if you can study over some topo maps to get a feel for the lay of the land and possible deer travel patterns so you aren't going in 100% blind...
Good luck. Hope you stick a big one. Let us know how you do!
Last edited by mcninja; 10/25/17 06:38 AM.
