Backpacking BSF/Pickett SF; Take the bow?

[BringBackThe80s]

My brothers decided this year's annual fall backpack will be a lazy 2-night loop around Rock Creek in Big South Fork and into a portion of Pickett State Forest/WMA. While we're there, both will be open for Tennessee's archery deer season, with incidental take of wild hog permitted in BSF. If I needed to cache gear to carry meat, it looks like I'd never be more than ~3 miles from a trailhead, and usually more like 1-2 miles.

The other guys are not bowhunters, but with only 3-4 miles on trail each day, I figure I would have time to post up for a while at daybreak/sunset if I see any any good sign or funnels. I hunt big woods and mountainsides a lot in SE TN, but usually with a treestand especially when bowhunting.

So, any of you have any experience in that area? Is there enough possibility to make it worth the added weight of my bow and a couple meat/game bags? Any info is appreciated.

 

[PickettSFHunter]

Very low possibility but I guess there's always some possibility.

 

[BringBackThe80s]

Very low possibility but I guess there's always some possibility.

Based on your username, I reckon you are guy that would know!

I just hate taking multiple non-hunting days away from work during the pre-rut or seeking phase, but the other guys always choose the first half of November for the annual outing.

 

[TNGRIZZLY_]

If you can wait, go during ml. It gets thick and very rough country. Both pickettsfhunter and I hunt different parts of big south fork, but it all is the same as in hard areas.
Not trying to discouraged you, just not going to sugar coat it. Just go and have fun with your group, but don't be upset if you don't see anything. But if you do get lucky to get one, it has a very good chance of a trophy. Good luck

 

[Yota]

That's a rough area. I'd take a pistol for two legged critters before the bow.