Can you successfully call in does during the rut?

Pre-Rut Preparation

Preparation is key when it comes to calling in does during the rut. Start by selecting a suitable location with a good vantage point to spot deer movement. Invest in a high-quality deer call, such as a mouth-blown or electronic model, that can produce the right sounds to mimic a doe in distress or estrus. Practice your calling skills and experiment with different calls to find what works best for you.

Calling Techniques for Does

During the rut, does are more receptive to calling, especially if they’re in estrus. Use a gentle, soft “bleat” or “mournful” call to simulate a doe in distress or a fawn calling for its mother. Start with a low-pitched call and gradually increase the pitch to mimic a doe’s natural vocalization. Aim for a call that’s loud enough to carry, but not so loud that it scares deer away. A good rule of thumb is to start with a call that’s around 5-10 seconds long and gradually increase the duration as you build up the doe’s response.

Effective Calling Strategies

When calling for does during the rut, it’s essential to be selective and strategic. Focus on areas with high doe activity, such as edges, clearings, and areas with abundant food sources. Use your calls in conjunction with scent, such as doe urine or estrus scent, to create a more appealing environment for does. Consider using a decoy, such as a doe or fawn, to attract does to your location. Finally, be patient and persistent – does may not respond immediately, so be prepared to make multiple calls and wait for a response.