In past years are the bucks still rutting pretty good when the first shotgun season rolls around (Nov 19-21)?
I will be heading out there and i was just wondering.
Thanks alot

it just depends on the season. two seasons ago i noticed it happening but not last season. I think the moon and temperture are factors as the amount of daylight will change no matter what the moon or temp are doing. good luck either way. If you never hunted gun season before in Illinois, after the first hour or so it is much different than bow season.

last year they were ruttin hard in bow season but not as much in gun season.

The rut is winding down by that time. Many of the bucks are still looking for does but they don't put as much effort into it since they are worn out.


I find Nov. 10-12th as the best time to be hunting to see the most rut activity.

Good luck!

Thanks alot fellows hopefully it will be a good hunt.