Reading the rut

Tip : The peak of rut is a special and often short time. Be ready to pick up on its key signs to maximize your opportunity for a buck.

Start rattling and aggressive grunting in the pre-rut. This period is marked by heavy buck sign û freshened often. Bucks are now on the prowl and very territorial. They are looking for both does coming into heat and "invader" bucks trying to "poach" on their territory.

The peak of rut means all bets are off. Buck sign often goes stale as bucks are chasing does, and rattling is less effective. Buck grunts and doe "bleats" are somewhat effective, but a good estrous scent is best. If you are ever going to hunt all day, do it now.

Post rut is a wind-down period. Bucks respond to grunts and rattling as they compete for the remaining does in heat. Remember, the bucks are regaining their customary caution, so hunt hard and smart.