I don't deer hunt, but I'm from NW Florida. My older brother hunted. I can't really offer you much advice, but I will say enjoy it. I hope you're not just a trophy hunter. But being out in the woods is wonderful. It's like a zen thing. Once you are way out there and it's quiet you remember you are a part of nature.
I'm out for doe in quota managed hunts. It's literally the opposite of trophy hunting. You go into suburban areas which have an assigned number of deer that must be harvested to keep ecological balance. Most of the time it's only does, but some of them have bucks. Depends on the balance of the area. You are completely correct about the natural connection though. Not only do I feel more in tune with the land than when I'm just out backpacking, but I learn so much more about the animal in the prep for the hunt.