Most Common Deer Calling Mistakes
Deer calling is a technique that polarizes modern hunters. Some find great success, while others seldom do. Finding the right balance is crucial. In this article, we'll explore common deer calling mistakes and offer effective alternatives.
1. Calling Timing in Early Season:
Calling during the early season may not yield the best results. Optimal periods are typically the last two weeks of October and the initial week of November. Utilize subtle social grunts for better chances of success.
2. Calling to Local Bucks:
Avoid excessive calling to bucks residing in the area, especially if the rut is still distant. Employ lower-risk tactics until the timing is more favorable.
3. Subordinate Bucks Response:
Understanding a deer's personality is vital. Timid or anti-social bucks may react negatively to calling. Observing their body language beforehand can provide valuable insights.
4. Caution with Downwind Bucks:
Pressured deer often circle downwind when called. Assess the terrain and potential movements to avoid causing harm. Careful stand placement is key for successful calling.
5. Cautious Calling in Pressured Areas:
In areas with high hunting pressure, calling may be less effective. Blind calling may not elicit desired responses from deer accustomed to hearing calls.
6. Maintaining Focus:
Staying attentive is crucial in deer hunting. A momentary lapse in focus can lead to missed opportunities for calling deer.
7. Adapting to Deer Personalities:
Each deer has unique traits, including food preferences and behavior. Tailoring your hunting approach to these specifics is essential for success.
8. Avoiding Rigid Habits:
Experienced hunters may rely on familiar tactics. However, what works for one deer may not work for another. Remain open to trying new calling techniques.
9. Guard Against Overthinking:
Avoid overanalyzing situations. Sometimes, simplicity is the key. Assess both the micro and macro aspects of a scenario before making a call.
10. Expect the Unexpected:
Deer behavior can be unpredictable. Be prepared for unforeseen actions and react accordingly.
11. Equipment Reliability:
Prevent hunt-ending call malfunctions through routine maintenance. While some failures are beyond your control, regular upkeep is essential.
12. Wise Calling Decisions:
Even seasoned hunters make calling errors. Consider all available information to make informed decisions on when, where, and how to call. Exercise restraint for better outcomes.
13. Strategic Calling Times:
Optimal times to call include when a deer is walking away, during the pre-rut and rut phases, with less-pressured deer, if a deer appears aggressive, in terrain that prevents circling downwind, or when encountering an unfamiliar buck.
Alternative Approaches to Attracting Deer: For those averse to calling, consider these alternatives (while adhering to regulations):
Creating mock scrapes
Hunting existing scrapes
Planting micro kill plots
Creating staging areas
Using bait
Employing a deer decoy
In conclusion, calling can be highly effective, but it's important to avoid common mistakes and understand deer tendencies, both vocal and non-vocal. Make informed decisions to increase your chances of success in the hunt.
