ORIGINAL: NY Bowhunter
Do you think the 2nd rut is not as an effective tool to bag a mature buck as the 1st time around? Do you think the more mature bucks are already wise to the human element that has been in the woods for a month or so already? Or is the smell of love in the air enough to let their guards down again no matter what time of year it is?
NY Bowhunter, Yes to all your questions. Read my post in the midwest "ILL rut " thread. This can be a great opportunity, but it will be more difficult. No cover (for you), all of the deer will be much more aware. The fact that you'll even see them in the daylight proves that the scent of love will knock their guard down a notch. Most likely, they'll show up after the does and fawns at a food source in the evening. I'd watch from a distance. When you start seeing younger bucks bumping does and fawns, get ready. In a day or two, the big boys will be there. In some places the Fawns will be ready to breed too. Try to plan an ambush but be warned.... sometimes this is a one and done proposition. If you are busted by the does before the buck gets there, you're done in that location. Something else that's interesting, it is during this time that I sometimes see the biggest bucks of the season. It can be real interesting.
Good luck