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CRACKING THE RUT SEASON CODE | MASTERING RUT SEASON STRATEGIES

The rut hunting calendar isn’t just a list of dates; it’s a roadmap through the phases of the rut season. In this guide, we’ll look at these phases, from the initial stirrings of pre-rut to the second rut. Along the way, we’ll uncover effective tactics and strategies to up your hunting game during this exhilarating period.

Early-Season Transition: October 10-22

As we transition from the early season to mid-October, we enter the pre-rut phase. It’s important to note that the true early season extends until around October 10, with the pre-rut following closely. During this phase, deer undergo a transition from their early season habits to their fall ranges. Numerous factors, including changing environmental conditions and hunting pressure, contribute to these shifts.

Strategic Focus: Prioritize mature bucks, as their locations may change as the rut progresses.  

The pre-rut phase witnesses increased deer activity, evident through the emergence of rubs and scrapes. Contrary to the misconception of an “October lull,” deer are on the move, just not necessarily in the same open areas. They shift to fall ranges, with a preference for food sources like acorns. For hunters, the game plan involves identifying buck bedding areas and positioning themselves between these areas and the preferred food source, such as acorns. Furthermore, evening hunts tend to yield better results during this phase than morning ones.

Seeking Phase: October 23 to November 1

The seeking phase unfolds, marked by more pronounced rut like behavior among bucks. This phase typically spans the last seven to ten days in October and sometimes stretches into early November. During this period, rut signs become more prominent, and testosterone levels rise, leading to increased daytime activity among bucks. While mature bucks might not actively chase does yet, they are more visible.

Strategic Focus: Employ calling and rattling techniques while continuing to emphasize bed to feed patterns.

Morning hunts become a viable option during the seeking phase. The focus remains on buck bedding areas, with rut signs such as scrapes and rub lines near these areas gaining significance. Positioning yourself between rut signs and buck bedding proves effective for morning hunts, while evening hunts still follow bed-to-feed patterns.

Chasing Phase: November 2-10

This is the phase commonly associated with the rut, even though actual breeding may not begin for a few more days. During the chasing phase, bucks, including mature ones, are observed chasing does. It’s a more aggressive phase that follows the seeking phase.

Strategic Focus: Implement aggressive calling and rattling tactics, and consider hunting in areas downwind of doe bedding spots and thick cover where deer might seek refuge.

To make the most of the chasing phase, set up along trails parallel to open areas and food sources, where bucks scent-check for does in estrus. In hilly terrain, concentrate on ridges just down from the crest. Aggressive calling, rattling, and decoying tactics are effective at this stage, as bucks’ testosterone levels peak.

Tending Phase: November 11-20

The tending phase, also known as the lock-down phase, is when most does are bred, and bucks stay with them in dense cover. While hunting during this phase can be challenging, it’s not impossible.

Strategic Focus: Hunt near doe bedding areas or pinch-points and saddles bucks use as they search for the next estrus doe.

Hunters must infiltrate the bedroom areas of these bucks, often found near doe bedding spots. Funnels, such as pinch-points and saddles, also present productive hunting locations. Continue with aggressive calling and decoying tactics.

Post-Rut: November 21-30

By this point, the majority of does have been bred, and hunting pressure has likely driven deer into thicker cover.

Strategic Focus: Shift to more cautious tactics, concentrate on thick cover where bucks might take refuge, and exercise patience.

Intensified hunting pressure prompts bucks to respond cautiously. Focus on secure cover areas where mature bucks may seek shelter.

Second Rut: December 1-15

As the primary rut phase subsides, a second rut phase commences. Some does that were not bred during the first rut cycle, along with sexually mature doe fawns, enter estrus again.

Strategic Focus: Concentrate on bed to feeding area buck patterns and be prepared for any rutting activity as a bonus.

Bucks may follow does to food sources during this phase, and encountering estrus doe fawns can lead to sightings of mature bucks in daylight hours. Reserve calling and rattling for later in this phase when bucks may respond more vigorously.

The Art of Vocalization: Research shows that vocalizations play a vital role in rut season. Deer emit guttural grunts, while elk produce haunting bugles. These sounds serve as both an invitation to potential mates and a challenge to rival males. For hunters, these vocalizations act as auditory beacons, guiding them to the action.

With unique strategies like calling techniques, scent management, precise stalking, and advanced trail camera technology, hunters can maximize their chances of success during this exhilarating period. Rut season is not just a hunting experience; it’s a profound connection with nature. So, gear up and embrace the untamed beauty of the wild!