I know nothing about waterfowl. But for deer, IMO, no need for a blind. If you're hunting shotgun, you want to be seen as hobbit says. Archery usually means you're camoed.
I scout before the season and make a decision about the spot most likely to payoff based on the abundance of fresh rubs, scrapes, prints & droppings. In general you want land with access to good bedding, food and water locations.
The closer you are to the access point, the more hunters you're likely to encounter. But the shorter distance to haul out the deer. Expect not to have the hunting area to yourself if it is public land. You may see hunters moving around or conducting a drive. Most hunters I know acknowledge other hunters in the woods with a slow wave - an "I see you" sort of thing.
I don't use a treestand. I usually sit against a good sized tree or rock and try to get 180 degree visibility if possible. I want to know where the other hunters are and I give them as much space as possible.
I don't use scent covers, but I do keep the wind to my face. I sit quietly and listen for rustling in the leaves. If it's raining or damp, you won't hear much. If I do walk around, I go very slowly and stop frequently to listen.
Learn how to field dress a deer if you don't know how already, and bring a kit/tools to do so. A 10' hank of rope is helpful for getting your deer out.
Most folks I know these days shoot slugs only during shotgun. In MA you can use buckshot, but the theory is you only have one projectile to worry about. It's a personal preference.
Most of my shots have been 50 yards or less. I use a smoothbore with foster slugs.
If you're hunting alone, leave a note detailing your planned hunt location and return time, just in case. Carry a cell phone, map. compass, etc.
![[smile]](/xen/styles/default/xenforo/smilies.vb/001.gif "Smile [smile]")
