I saw a GREAT buck on 10/21-10-22. I told Duke when I saw him that I'd done so much to learn their patterns and bedding areas....that I truly wished it was sept. 21. That way....I could be assured that he was on his normal pattern/cycle....in lieu of following his little head. I was actually bummed about it. I've gone back in there since that sighting.....but I haven't seen him. I've seen a smaller buck almost every time (playing the wind religiously)....but he hasn't shown, again. What I did do was see him almost a mile away.....this past Tuesday morning (almost positive it was "him").

I've had my success with mature bucks during the rut. I'd feel a MUCH greater accomplishment if I could take them on THEIR terms. I did exactly what you described to take mine. I hunted the does.....and the bucks came looking for them. I actually never saw them before the rut....less one sighting on Sept. 12th, 2006.

I had aLOT of great sits this year (so far) learning where they "should" be. It'll bea great year next year....if I can learn a lot more before this year's out.

You kinda have to divide the season up, though. If you're trying to find a mature buck .....and you haven't found him until the rut....what have you really done? Did you find him? Or....did he find the does you're now hunting?

Will....this is a great thread. I agree with you 100%.