Interesting discussion. I think there are variables and that each piece of property is different.

My advice based of of limited experience... if you are going to bait, do it in the woods. Baiting on the patches create extra pressure.

If you have a cell signal, use a cellular camera. Stay out as much as you can. We have dudes "checking cameras" often. It never fails that sightings drop after these events.

I do think that deer density is down overall. That's just my opinion.