Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics

There are many effective pre-rut hunting tactics that can be used by deer hunters. Used alone or together, these tactics can improve a hunter's odds of success. The pre-rut period is simply the period of time just before the does begin coming into heat. At this time buck's will often begin moving quickly searching for doe's that are early and can this can make for some exciting hunting.

Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics - Rattle and Call Gently

Gentle rattling and calling may get a quick response in the pre-rut period. Bucks are looking for does and will come to the sound of rattling expecting to find two other bucks fighting over a doe. Doe bleats and other calls can bring the bucks running as well. Calls may also attract does which will help bring in the bucks as well.

Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics - Field Edges

Ever noticed how does seem more comfortable heading out into the fields earlier and staying longer than bucks? The bucks know that the does can be found in the fields and will come to the edges of fields looking for does. Wooded areas of higher elevation near fields are a great place to find a buck that is checking out the field.

Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics - Trails

During the pre-rut, bucks will often travel long distances each day looking for a doe that is ready to breed. Hunters can set up along well used trails and simply wait for a buck to pass by. The use of scent can help to get the buck to stop in the right place for a shot, but be careful not to leave human scent on the trail.

Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics - Sign

Hunters need to be aware of their surroundings and pay attention to increases in sign. Bucks may suddenly begin making scrapes and rubs where none were previously located. This is a great indication that bucks are looking for does and hunters need to be in the woods and ready.

Pre-Rut Deer Hunting Tactics - Patience

The pre-rut period can be quite frustrating with little or no movement one day and fast action the next. Hunters during the pre-rut need to put in as much time in the woods as possible and be present when the bucks get moving.