I think it might be a little early yet. But I think in theory anyway that rattling and calling should work best a bit before the rut heats up. The bucks are always ready to breed early and waiting for the does. Once the does get into gear the biggest bucks probably have their hand (hooves) full and may not bother going to a fight. When there are no does in heat yet, a fight may bring every buck in earshot in as they are all waiting for the first doe.

I always carry a call or two handy as if you see a deer or spook a deer you can often stop them from running and bring them out for a look. Even if they see you they will often be confused by a deer call. I think deer do not understand " lieing" or the concept that a human would immitate a deer sound. If they hear a deer then there must be a deer there.

Robin