RE: Washington Blacktail ?
When I was going to School at Western Washington [State College back then] in Bellingham in the late 60's and very early 70's, the local area deer would be in the rut by the second week of November if the weather pattern was similar to this Fall. If the weather got cold early and stayed that way - the rut seemed to start up earlier, too. As long as you can see what's going on around you - I'd give "the can" a try. Be prepared, a horny buck may just run right up to you. If you have cat sign in the area, keep your eyes open and watch your back - more than bucks will be attracted to a bleat-style call. Good luck. <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>