My brother and I are going to wis this year to visit relatives and hunt on my uncles prop. We are trying to decide when is the best time to go. The rut usually starts there nov 3. We had planned on getting there nov 1. I was wondering if anyone thinks we should get there sooner than that? Also I had planned on using doe bleets with scent poss a decoy. Is this tactic good for the rut. I will also shoot a doe if given the oppurtunty. We are limited on scouting time but we will hang our stands when we get there.

I personally like the first week of November here in NY which is usually still considered pre-rut.

I love hunting from about Oct. 31st - Nov. 17th, anytime through there is a good bet for the midwest.

If you have time to scout and pattern the deer pre rut is where it is at IMO. The deer are more predictable durring this time. But from what you said you won't have time to scout so the rut is your best bet.

As for decoys, I may get shunned for saying this but I don't like them. They do work as others can attest but I think they do more harm then good. Scents, calling and ratteling may definately be to your benefit.

Pre-rut is one of the best times of the hunting season to pick up sign and pattern one a little better. But i also agree that if you don`t have the time to scout properly the rut is your best bet for seeing nice buck. If you can find a good group of does a couple of weeks before the rut hang close enuff to them with out spooking them. And try to use some kind of cover sent, be patiant old big boy will be around close

I'll take both pre-rut and rut! If I absolutely had to choose one then it would be the pre-rut. If I were going to Wisconsin this year then I would aim for 10/22 - 10/31 time frame. That's how I would plan it.

TBO

I would choose the week before peak rut. Peak rut here in Wis is around Nov. 7, so figure about the week that TBO said, 10/22-11/2. Anytime in there. The bucks will be easy to call in with rattling horns, and they'll be searching does. the does wont quite be in estrous yet though. I dont know about the deer being more predictable, but there will be alot of bucks on the move. Hunting near, but not right on food sources is good too becuase that's where the does are. also find some doe bedding areas. Laying a drag line can't hurt either. Good luck!

slayer

I thank you guys for the advice. I live in az and our hunting here for muleys and coues is a lot different. I lived in wis till I was nine. The last time I was there it was 3 yrs ago during rifle season and I got a deer but I would rather bow hunt not only for the challenge but to see more deer. And I finally talked my younger brother into getting a bow. I cant wait to go. If I go in the pre rut do you rec doe scent or buck? Thx for all the help.