best late season deer call

3 min read 18-12-2024

Meta Description: Late season deer hunting requires a different strategy. Discover the best deer calls for November, including rattling antlers, grunt calls, and bleats, to lure in mature bucks during this challenging time. Learn expert tips and tricks to maximize your success. Find out which calls are most effective and how to use them strategically for a successful late-season hunt.

Introduction: The Challenge of Late-Season Deer Hunting

Late-season deer hunting presents unique challenges. The rut is often over, bucks are weary from the breeding season, and food sources are dwindling. This makes attracting them significantly harder. Choosing the right deer call is crucial for success in November and beyond. This article explores the best late-season deer calls and effective strategies for using them.

Understanding Late-Season Buck Behavior

Before diving into specific calls, it's vital to understand how bucks behave in late season. Bucks are typically more cautious and less responsive to aggressive calls. They are focused on survival and conserving energy. Your calling strategy needs to reflect this shift in behavior.

Food Sources and Their Influence

Food is a major driver of deer movement. Late-season bucks are actively searching for high-energy foods like acorns, browse, and agricultural crops. Your calling location should be near these resources.

The Importance of Scent Control

Scent control is paramount during the late season. Bucks rely heavily on their sense of smell. Even a hint of human scent can spook them.

Top Late-Season Deer Calls

Here are some of the most effective calls for the late season:

1. Rattling Antlers: A Classic Technique

Rattling antlers simulates a fight between bucks. This can trigger an aggressive response from a nearby buck, particularly if he’s defending his territory or checking out competition.

How to use it: Start with short, sharp rattling sequences, then gradually increase intensity. Pause frequently to mimic the sounds of bucks resting.
When it works best: Use rattling during the early mornings and late evenings. This is when bucks are most active. It’s also effective near established trails or feeding areas.

2. Grunt Calls: For Close-Range Encounters

Grunt calls imitate the soft grunting sounds bucks make when communicating or approaching a doe. These are particularly effective for attracting bucks that are already in the area.

How to use them: Use soft, short grunts interspersed with pauses. Avoid excessive grunting, as this can sound unnatural.
When it works best: Use grunt calls when you suspect a buck is nearby, based on tracks or other signs. A grunt call can work in conjunction with a rattling sequence.

3. Bleat Calls: A More Cautious Approach

Bleat calls imitate the sounds of a doe. This can attract bucks that are looking for breeding opportunities, even late in the season. Use this call sparingly and with discretion.

How to use them: Use soft, short bleats, mimicking a distressed doe. Never use this call excessively.
When it works best: Combine this with a grunt call or rattling sequence. This creates a sense of intrigue. Avoid overuse.

4. Can Calls: Adding Another Layer of Deception

A can call produces a variety of sounds. This versatile call can simulate both bucks fighting and does in distress. Experiment with different sounds to see what works best in your location.

How to use them: Practice beforehand to master different sounds. This will help in adjusting to specific situations and deer responses.
When it works best: Can be used throughout the day, especially near known feeding or bedding areas.

Combining Calls for Maximum Impact

The most successful hunters often combine different calls for a more realistic and effective approach. For example, you might start with a short rattling sequence, followed by a few grunts, and finish with a soft bleat.

Choosing the Right Call: Quality and Realism

Investing in high-quality calls is crucial. Poorly made calls produce unnatural sounds that will likely scare deer away. Look for calls made from durable materials that produce realistic sounds.

Late Season Calling: Preparation and Patience

Late-season deer hunting is a game of patience. You're unlikely to see results every time. Proper preparation, using the right calls, and choosing the right location dramatically increase your chances of success.

Remember, scent control, location selection, and careful observation of deer behavior are crucial for success, regardless of the calls you use. Good luck and happy hunting!