Pre-Rut or Rut?

From information I’ve gathered over the past 20 plus years, it’s apparent that some deer hunter’s still have a problem figuring out exactly when the big bucks their hunting have transitioned from pre-rut behavior into full rut mode.

But as I wrote in my book, “Aggressive Whitetail Hunting”, there are some definite and obvious signs to indicate when the real rut is in full swing. The most common mistake hunters make has to do with the misinterpretation of their observation during the late pre-rut period. More specifically, it has to do with their observations regarding immature buck behavior. Trust me, seeing immature bucks trailing, chasing, and other wise harassing antler less deer, isn’t necessary an indication that the breading ritual has truly underway.

Here’s the bottom line. Until you or a trust worthy hunting buddy actually see a mature buck trailing, chasing, and or breeding a doe, don’t just assume the rut is on. Especially if that assumption is based on the fact that you’ve seen immature bucks displaying rut like behavior.

Another thing, just because the rut started on a certain day last year, don’t just assume that it’s going to begin on that exact same day again the next year. Truth is, there are a bunch of factors that can effect the timing of the rut. Again, nothing, I repeat, nothing will tell you more conclusively that the rut truly is underway than actually seeing big bucks displaying breeding tendencies, and you can take that to the bank.

Remember, hunt hard, and always hunt safe.