When discussing bowhunting whitetails, the conversation often centers around the rut—the time when monster bucks come out of hiding, travel more extensively, and make more frequent daylight appearances. The belief is that the rut is when the largest, most elusive bucks are at their most vulnerable. This idea holds true in areas with minimal hunting pressure, optimal buck-to-doe ratios, and a healthy deer population where mature bucks are more common.
However, the rut has its drawbacks. In northern Idaho, where I bowhunt, the main issue is that many hunters, especially rifle hunters, don’t start pursuing whitetails until the rut peaks around Thanksgiving. This influx of hunters turns the woods into a chaotic environment, making it challenging to find success with a bow during what should be the prime time for bowhunting. While not all states face this problem, rifle hunting tends to overshadow bowhunting, leading wildlife commissions to cater to the broader hunting audience.
Another significant drawback of the rut is the unpredictability of whitetail bucks. During this time, bucks roam erratically, rarely staying in one location for more than a day. For those who believe in luck, the rut can be a thrilling time as a monster buck might unexpectedly appear beneath your stand. Unfortunately, I’m not one to rely on luck for whitetails; I prefer a more consistent approach.
The success of hunting during the rut heavily relies on precise timing. If you hit the rut at its peak—those crucial three or four days—it can indeed be magical. However, in areas with less favorable conditions, the rut might seem like a non-event. Additionally, the phenomenon of the lockdown, where prime bucks stay hidden with a hot doe and don’t move, can make the rut even less productive. Overall, while the rut can be exhilarating in some places, it remains unpredictable for most.
I’ve shifted my focus to early season hunting, particularly because it contrasts sharply with the chaos of the rut. This shift is especially beneficial when hunting velvet-antlered monster bucks. In September and early October, when whitetail bucks are still in velvet, they are often more predictable. Observing bachelor groups or capturing images of high-scoring bucks on trail cameras during this time can provide valuable insights into their patterns, making them easier to hunt.
During early season, bucks are typically found in predictable patterns, often traveling in groups or pairs. They focus on feeding to build up fat reserves for the rut. Key areas for finding these early-season monster bucks include alfalfa fields, soybean fields, and apple trees. Scouting becomes simpler because these bucks are more visible and follow set routines.
The key to success in early season is minimizing disturbances. By carefully approaching stands and avoiding spooking deer, you can maintain their feeding patterns. Morning hunts can be particularly rewarding, as deer often visit apple trees or water sources before heading to their bedding areas. Evening hunts are also effective, especially if you position yourself near access trails or secluded parts of fields.
Overall, early season hunting has proven more successful for me in Idaho compared to the rut. While the rut is exciting, I find that hunting early in the season for monster bucks yields better results and greater satisfaction.
- By Patrick Meitin
Read more of my hunting tips and stories:
Put The Finishing Touches On Your Shooting Skills
Effective Whitetail Blood Trailing
