I was thinking about something while on stand yesterday. Since this is my first season, I couldn't come up with an answer for myself. Would you kill a doe this close to the pre-rut / rut or let her walk in hopes she would lead a nice buck to you in the next couple of weeks?

Yes.

I don't know of any state that's currently experiencing a shortage of does , go ahead and shoot the doe , another one will be along to lead the boys to you .

I see lots of deer where I am.....so the answer would be "yes".....if I needed the meat....or wanted to shoot the deer. If I thought the recovery would lead me into their sanctuary, though.....THAT might keep me from releasing my arrow. this time of year......I stay away from my best spots.......to keep from being tempted.

Good luck....

Jeff

No I would let them live for now , at this stage of the season you need all the help you can get and if you have alot of does the better your chances are.
Just hang in there and let themdoes walk around your stand , Mr. big buck will come by in time .
Remember all good things come to thosewho wait and I'm a very patcent man.

I have a doe in the freezer already and passed on a couple of doe last night in hopes that there was a nice buck to follow. With it being your first year though I would say just get some deer under your belt and have fun.

anytime you shoot a deer you run the risk of scaring a bigger one that's nearby.

If it feels good, do it.

I've given that advise more than once...

Kill and eat!

First season? - then go ahead and take her, unless of course, she keeps looking behind at her backtrack...

-fsh

Put one through her pumphouse. If you are crafty...bring a small sealable bottle. Take the urine from her bladder and you have your own doe urine scent to use.