When asked to define deer habitat, many hunters think of big, endless forest. But much of the best whitetail cover is a patchwork of woodlots, cultivated fields, brush and human development. Viewed from above, it all looks like a patchwork quilt.

Big-woods hunting is an experience to be savored, but you may have better luck targeting small patches of cover close to home.

PICK YOUR SPOTS
In hunting patchwork habitat, the first obstacle is finding places to hunt. Public land usually means more hunting pressure, so if you want the best quality hunting, seek permission to hunt private land.

Because of personal or municipal reasons, some patches will likely be closed to all hunting. Don't worry, however! These patches act as refuges where big bucks can hide and grow old. This is why so many top bucks are often found in this type of habitat. Patchwork habitat may be second only to pay-to-hunt operations for producing trophy-class bucks.

LAYING THE GROUNDWORK
There are some simple, logical tips for gaining access to hunt on patches of private land. First, consult your state and local regulations to ensure that the area you want to hunt is a good choice.

Also, keep in mind that many landowners approve of bowhunters, but will think long and hard before allowing gun hunters on their land.

When approaching landowners, do so politely (during the off-season) and always thank them for their time, no matter what they decide. This could lead to your permission to hunt elsewhere.

Start seeking permission to hunt as soon as possible. Many landowners want only a limited number of hunters on their property, so be the first to ask.

Some states require written permission, others don't, but it's always best to have a signed piece of paper to present to anyone who questions your right to be hunting.

If you plan to be hunting with a partner, have that spelled out clearly as well. You can kill the golden goose if you get permission for yourself to hunt and then show up with 10 buddies on opening day!

Treat the land and the landowner with respect. Never litter, and pick up any trash you find -- whether it belongs to you or not. Never block farm lanes or other access roads. Close gates and do not knock down fences.

The list of potential courtesies is endless, so be constantly thoughtful.

When your hunt is over, thank the landowner for his generosity on your way out. Ask if he would like some venison -- and get permission for the next year.

POCKET TACTICS
Once you have your permissions in line, it's time to get acquainted with the property. It would be great to be able to scout first and then pick the land where you want to hunt, but this is a rare luxury unless everyone in the neighborhood knows you.

On small lots, the only chance you may have to take a buck will be during the rut, when deer move much more than usual. Big bucks are often taken in places where they have not been spotted during the previous 11 months.

The perfect place to hunt patchwork habitat is along a regular deer travel route between a food source and a refuge area (where no one is allowed to hunt).

Though rutting bucks wander for miles with complete disregard for nutrition, hunters can generally depend on the bucks being near or following the resident does.

One of the reasons why patchwork habitat produces so many big bucks is that it tends to be rich in forage, from natural mast to farm crops and even ornamental shrubbery. Learn the feeding habits of the local deer herd and take notes so you can make predictions and determine their patterns.

The best time to observe deer feeding in patchwork habitat is at night. This can be problematic: Neighbors who see you scanning with night vision optics may take it the wrong way. It's best to call the appropriate landowner and let him know that you will be out looking for deer after dark -- where it's legal, of course.