Calling Deer

[fisherfromwisc]

I am now starting to think that callin deer doesnt work. I have been trying to call in deer for 2 years now and have not called in a single deer. Does this actually work? and if it does what tequniques do you use to call them in. Any info would be alot of help. thanks.

[EASTXHUNTER]

What kind of "calling" are you doing? Rattling, grunting, bleats??? Rattling is a time tested method here in Texas, if done at the right time it works great.

[skeeter 7MM]

I use strictly calling as an aid when deer hunting to stop them, settle them and on some cases when visually seen to spark their attention. I don't find it effective like calling elk or moose where you can't see them and hope to draw them in by way of calling to your location. However their is always a BUT if you throw in Rattlin and calling then I think it can be very effective. First you must start with the right spot, pick an area you know bucks will hear you and feel comfortable to come in for a look. I look for areas they use close to bedding areas, this could be a ridgeline, meadow, rubline, funnel, etc..not a open field! It is important to know where they are and have the wind in your favor when calling of any kind. Deer will often try and wind the noise maker, so when calling or rattling be aware of the backside. I simply start of slow and gradually up my offering as time goes on (rattling for 30-90 sec and waiting 30 mins in between). I will throw out grunts every 10-15minutes, some contact, some tending and if extremely hot in the rut agressive grunts and estrus bleats are used. Rattling is most effective in late pre rut, rut and early post rut.

[GBhunter]

It depends on where you hunt. Like EASTXHUNTER said, in texas, rattling works great. However, near Elcho WI i've only ever rattled in one deer in four years, and it was only a small 4 pt. I have also had little success grunting deer in, but you shouldn't be discouraged. pcik up just about any issue of Outdoor Life and it will give you some great pointers.

Mike