Should I Practice Soft Calling Before The Season?

Importance of Soft Calling

Practicing soft calling before the season can make all the difference in a quiet day hunt. When the deer are not moving and the air is still, a soft, subtle call can be the difference between getting a shot and going home empty-handed. To develop this skill, you should practice calling in a variety of conditions, including wind, rain, and early morning quiet hours.

Techniques for Soft Calling

To call softly, you need to focus on using the right vocal technique. This involves using a high, tight, and controlled pitch, often by using the edge of your tongue to produce a soft, raspy sound. Aim for a volume that is barely audible, almost like a whisper. Practice calling with a mouth call or a diaphragm call, as these types of calls can produce a softer sound than a box call. Start with short, simple calls like a bleat or a fawn bleat, and gradually work your way up to more complex calls like a doe in heat or a buck tending.

Tips for Effective Practice

To get the most out of your soft calling practice, find a location with minimal background noise and distractions. Start by calling in a quiet area, and then gradually move to areas with more background noise to simulate real-world conditions. Practice calling at different times of day, including early morning and late evening, when deer are most active. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and call as softly as possible, then take a 5-minute break to rest your vocal cords. Repeat this process for 30-60 minutes to develop your endurance and control.