In my opinion, there is no bad time to grunt. Deer dont only talk during the rut. I mean obviously i wouldnt do tending grunts when its not the right time. Just you basic grunt 3 or 4 times every 10-15 minutes. The True Talker is a great grunt call. I used to have one but i couldnt stand how the reed kept falling out. I switched to the Bow Grunter PLUS. No matter what call you have they should all work.