BY JOE KOSACK THE DOMINO D EFFECT EER HUNTING has peculiarities some hunters never put together. One that matters a lot is what I like to refer to as the " domino effect. " It occurs when hunters - often unknowingly - inform deer of their presence afield. It might start with a small slipup: making unnatural noises in the woods, brushing against vegetation on a deer trail, visiting hunting areas too often. And that compels whitetails - by nature, nervous animals - to be even more cautious, something no hunter wants. The key to deer hunting anywhere is avoiding suspicion, because once you give deer reason to pause, you invite them to look closer. That's when those dominoes start toppling, and along with them, your chance for success. The key to limiting such chain reactions is multifaceted. But it's not some convoluted technique that requires expensive gear, or sacrifices most casual hunters are unwilling to make. You can make these adjustments easily. It's imperative to know - and then remain aware of - everything that can influence your hunting success. That can STOPPING THE TOPPLING MARCH 2023 21