Should I adjust my glassing strategy during the rut?

Adjusting Your Scan Rate

During the rut, mule deer behavior changes significantly. Bucks become more active and aggressive, and does tend to congregate in areas with abundant food and water. To effectively glass these areas, increase your scan rate to 5-10 seconds per scan, allowing you to quickly identify and track deer movement. This increased scan rate will help you keep up with the fast-paced activity during the rut.

Focusing on Doe Concentrations

Mule deer bucks often follow does, so identifying areas with high concentrations of does is crucial. Look for areas with abundant food sources, such as alfalfa fields, clover, or shrubs, as well as water sources, like rivers, streams, or ponds. These areas tend to attract does, which in turn attract bucks. Focus your glassing efforts on these areas, scanning for does and then searching for bucks following them.

Time of Day and Glassing Strategy

When glassing during the rut, focus your efforts during the early morning and late afternoon/early evening hours when deer are most active. During these times, glass for does in food-rich areas and then search for bucks following them. Use a high-powered spotting scope or binoculars to scan areas thoroughly, and consider using a ranging reticle to estimate distances and aid in tracking deer movement.