Good info so far and I would agree...they still fight when there are does still in estrus but I have noticed early morning seems to be the best time to rattle around here....of the few bucks I have rattled in the earlier I have rattled the better it worked. Also depending on the time and how good the rut is they may not be as aggressive as other times. You'll need to rattle accordingly Like early season an all out battle isn't likely but clanking antlers may bring in a dominate buck wondering who the two young deer making noise are...