I was wondering when the earliest you guys have used a call in the field. I understand that almost all calls are made for the period surrounding the rut, but has anyone taken a call with them scouting. Any reactions?? Just wondering...thanks.

Vogt, actually most of the calls produced will allow the user to make social calls that deer use year round to communicate. Such calls are; doe bleats, fawn bawls, contact/social grunt that both does and bucks use. Another one is the snort/wheeze call we often hear when alarming a deer. Really the only calls that will not work are the agressive calls bucks usually make near the rut period (tending grunts, etc).

Now to your question about whether they work, yes they will if you stick to the non threatening variety. I usually only use them when I bump something when scouting or to get a buck to turn a certain direction so I can better see his rack. I have never nor would I sit down and just call, no point educated the deer you are planning to hunt and what worth is it really. The reaction I receive really depends on the situation if I bumped a deer who clearly saw me the call will make no difference, so really no point to call. However if I bump a deer that didn't see me it will often calm them down and stop them. I use either the fawn bawl or contact grunt. If I have a buck milling and wanting him to turn or lift up I try the lowest tone as possible (usually a contact grunt), I just want to spark his attention...not allow him to directly pinpoint his spectator.

Good Luck

I've used grunts and bleats in early October, but never had anything respond until around the 3rd week of October when the rut starts kicking in.

well i have used fawn destrous once while scouting and called in a huge doe. thats the only calling i have ever done out of the rut. She came running in it was great