If you are too loud, they will up and move ahead of you. If you are too quiet, you might sneak in too close and they flush out like grouse and sprint away.
I've always preferred as quiet as possible, as that allows me to hear movement better. But lately, i've bumped a couple of blacktails out of their beds at close range and had no shot opportunity as they sprint away.

Curious to hear from those that prefer to NOT stay as quiet as possible. What is your tactic for hiking thick timber.

Thanks!