Best times to use calls during evening hunts?

Timing the Call

Timing is crucial when using calls during evening hunts. Deer are most active and vocal during the late afternoon to early evening hours, around 1-2 hours before sunset. This is when they tend to move to feeding areas, and their natural behaviors increase the effectiveness of your calls. For example, if you’re hunting whitetail deer, use the late afternoon to early evening hours when they’re most active and vocal. This can be around 4-6 PM in the fall, depending on your location and the specific deer population.

Choosing the Right Call

When choosing a call for evening hunts, select one that mimics the sounds deer make during this time frame. A low-pitched grunt call or a rattle are effective during evening hunts, as they mimic the sounds deer make when they’re feeling comfortable and relaxed in their feeding areas. Use a soft, gentle approach when making the call, as loud or aggressive calls can scare deer away. For example, use a soft, low-pitched grunt call every 30-60 seconds, pausing briefly between each call to allow the deer to respond.

Combining Calls with Movement

To increase the effectiveness of your calls during evening hunts, combine them with subtle movement. Deer are more likely to respond to calls when they see movement, as it indicates the presence of a potential mate or rival. Use slow, deliberate movements to scan your surroundings, pausing briefly to make a call. For example, take a few slow steps to your left, then pause and make a call. Take a few slow steps to your right, then pause and make another call. This movement and call combination can increase the effectiveness of your calls and attract deer to your location.