RE: calls
pre rut thru post rut is the best time to rattle and use doe bleats orthe "can". The response you get to rattling is directly related to the competition to breed so if you have a high doe to buck ratio it may be a futile adventure. However if ratios is in check then it can be an excellent way to roust bucks to your location. Set up in a transition area (between bed and food), I pick areas that are natural funnels for deer movements like a ridgeline, meadow, fenceline, etc deep in the bush. I like to get deeper when rattling vs the edges or on a food source, if the deer feel safe they will be more apt to check out your offering. As such I like midday rattling and calling in the late pre rut to early post rut. Outside these phases of the rut I use the calls in the peak movement hours so early am and evening.
When calling whether rattling or using a grunt or bleat I usually call every 15 minutes, unless I get a visual. My rattling session start out low toned and short 45 sec then progress to2min with more intensity added as I ramp up. I set up so I am down wind of where I know they bed and in an area that they don't want to or can't easily get to my backdoor (down wind). Even so Iremain attentive to the wing sides as they will in most cases try and circle your position before committing to the scene. I rattle on the ground soI can rake trees/ground and pound on it to add more realism. I make sure my position is concealed by some natural backing like a larger based tree and shrubs. Always panning with the eyes looking for lateral lines among the brushand listening for anything that may indicate a deer on the move. Some come in very quitewhile others are loud & proud.
Not foolproof but what is in hunting. When it works it isvery exciting.
Good luck
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