Deer Season: A Guide to Spur-Ma-Gettin Outdoors' Calls and Tips

As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp edge, hunters know that deer season is just around the corner. For those eager to get out into the woods, having the right tools and techniques can make all the difference between coming home empty-handed or with a trophy buck. This guide from Spur-Ma-Gettin Outdoors will walk you through the essential calls and tips to enhance your hunting success this season.

Understanding Deer Behavior

To effectively hunt deer, it’s crucial to understand their behavior, especially during the hunting season. Deer are creatures of habit, following specific patterns related to feeding, bedding, and mating. Knowing these patterns allows you to predict where deer are likely to be, making your calls and strategies more effective.

During the rut, bucks become more vocal and aggressive, making it the perfect time to utilize various calls. Understanding the phases of the rut—pre-rut, peak rut, and post-rut—can help you decide when to use specific calls and techniques.

Types of Deer Calls

1. Grunt Calls
   Grunt calls mimic the sounds bucks make when communicating with other deer, particularly during the rut. They can be used to draw a curious buck into range or to challenge a dominant buck. Short, soft grunts are great for attracting bucks that are nearby, while longer, louder grunts can reach those farther away.
2. Bleat Calls
   Doe bleats simulate the sounds of does and fawns. These calls can be particularly effective during the early season when does are calling for their fawns or during the rut when bucks are seeking does in estrus. A well-timed bleat can bring in bucks looking to breed or protect does.
3. Rattle Calls
   Rattle calls mimic the sound of two bucks fighting, a common occurrence during the rut as they compete for does. This sound can draw in bucks looking to join the fight or to take advantage of a potentially weakened rival. Rattling works best during the pre-rut and rut phases when bucks are most aggressive.

Tips for Using Deer Calls

1. Timing
   Using calls at the right time is essential. Early mornings and late afternoons, when deer are most active, are prime times for calling. Additionally, understanding the timing within the season—such as the different phases of the rut—can help you choose the most effective call.
2. Volume Control
   Adjusting the volume of your calls can help you reach deer at different distances without spooking them. Start with softer calls, increasing the volume if you don’t get a response. In windy conditions, louder calls may be necessary to cut through the noise.
3. Call Sequences
   Creating a realistic sequence of calls can make your setup more convincing. For example, starting with a few grunts, followed by a rattle sequence, and ending with a bleat can simulate a real interaction among deer, drawing in curious or competitive bucks.
4. Avoiding Overcalling
   Overcalling is a common mistake that can scare away deer. If you’ve made several calls without a response, it’s best to stay silent for a while and observe. Remember, less can be more when it comes to calling deer.

Other Hunting Tips

1. Scouting and Preparation
   Scouting your hunting area before the season begins is key. Look for deer signs like tracks, rubs, and scrapes to identify high-traffic areas. Understanding the terrain and deer movement patterns will help you choose the best locations for your stand or blind.
2. Camouflage and Scent Control
   Staying hidden and scent-free is critical to avoiding detection. Use camo that matches your hunting environment and take steps to control your scent, such as using scent-eliminating sprays and washing your clothes in scent-free detergent.
3. Stand Placement
   Place your stand near food sources, trails, or bedding areas where deer are likely to travel. Elevation can give you a better vantage point and help keep your scent above the deer’s nose. Ensure your stand is well-concealed and offers a clear shot.
4. Patience and Persistence
   Hunting requires patience. It’s important to stay still and quiet for extended periods, even if you don’t see any immediate action. Persistence often pays off, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t have success right away.

Essential Gear for Deer Hunting

1. Calls and Accessories
   Having a variety of calls in your arsenal ensures you’re prepared for different situations. Grunt tubes, bleat cans, and rattle bags are all valuable tools for the deer hunter.
2. Clothing and Footwear
   Dress for the weather and ensure your clothing is appropriate for the environment you’re hunting in. Scent-free and quiet fabrics are ideal. Don’t forget sturdy, comfortable footwear, as you may be on your feet for long periods.
3. Weapons and Optics
   Whether you prefer a rifle, bow, or muzzleloader, ensure your weapon is sighted in and ready for the season. Good optics, like binoculars and scopes, can make a big difference in spotting and accurately targeting deer.

Success during deer season comes down to preparation, understanding deer behavior, and using the right calls and techniques. With the tips and strategies from Spur-Ma-Gettin Outdoors, you’ll be well-equipped to make this hunting season your best yet. Remember to stay safe, respect the wildlife, and enjoy the experience of being out in nature.

Happy hunting!