As an avid deer hunter myself, both bow and gun, I can give you both perspectives. During bow season, which is early fall in Alabama, I prefer other people in the woods - it moves the dear around so as to increase my chances for a shot. During gun season, however, I would not ride in the woods - period. There are too many things that can go wrong. As a woods rider I would like to assume that ALL hunters conduct themselves ethically. You know human nature as well as I do, hence, they [hunters] don't. Moreover, a bullet from a high-powered rifle will absolutely ruin your day and then some. It is best if you can join a well run hunting club. Some of my riding buddies have. It is one of those win-win relationships. The deer love to use open trail rather than trying to move through thick brush, so the hunters love it. Plus like I said, when the deer aren't moving a woods rider can stir them up a bit. Have fun and be safe. There are always plenty of loonies out there!