Signs of False Rut
 

Well, I think I saw the first signs of a false rut tonight. While I was spotting, I saw a big body deer walking the edge of a corn field. He was about 200 yards off so I couldnt see his rack. Upon closer evaluation, there was a doe bedded down half-way between us. Being intrigued by the strutting of the big bodied deer, I decided to stay and watch. Within minutes, the big bodied deer was on a rope directly towards the doe and myself with the spotlight. As he approached, I was able to see he was a shooter 8. He actually bumped the doe with his nose and then started following her around the field as she walked and trotted. He got within 70 yards of me in my truck and could care less I was there. What an exciting feeling. Im willing to bet that 28 days from now, the rut will be in full swing. Any thoughts??

I hope you're right, but of course it depends on your location. Apparently "they" are predicting a late rut this season because of the moon phases, but there was a knowledgeable guy who used to post a lot here (T.R. Michaels) that insisted that the moon phase does NOT affect the rut. I hope he's right because a late rut means it will occur in full firearms season, and that means everyone and their brother will be out hunting by then.

I have never heard the term "false rut". You very well may have seen a hot doe. There are a few instances of the oldest does in the herd coming in during early October.

I also agree that the rut happens at the same time every year regardless of the moon. I cringe every time someone claims we are having a late or early rut on any given year. Whitetail rut at the same time and have been since they were established.

When I used the term "false rut", I guess I was referring to the first month of the 4 month "rut" cylcle when only a few mature does become hot. From my experiences, this is usually the first sign that tells the big boys mating season is approaching. Usually 28 days from the time I see this is when the main rut occurs and most of the does come into heat. There will be another one in December and then one in January. I would have used the term pre-rut, but I usually call the chase phase (last two weeks in October) the pre-rut. Anyways, no matter how you look at it, she was hot and the big boy was on her tail.

As far as having a late rut this year, I just got in an argument with my father in-law yesterday about this. He insists its going to be a late rut. I argue the fact that for the last 20 years I have been hunting, the rut has never changed. Halloween through Nov. 15th is always the best time to be in the woods. That is "if there is ever a bad time". Good luck and happy hunting!!!!

Deer and Deer Hunting mag says it will be a late rut. First time since 1995, could it happen?? Maybe. Did i change my vacation dates? No. Nov. 8-12 I'm still going to Ohio. I've noticed where I hunt in Ohio and Missouri, the "Chasing phase" changes by a week or so.

Agree Halloween to mid Nov, I'll be surprised if it isn't on before Nov 15th.