The rut is one of the most exciting times for white-tailed deer hunting in Arkansas. During this period, typically in late November to early December, bucks are actively seeking does, and their behavior becomes more predictable—making it an ideal time for hunters. Understanding rut dynamics and employing the right strategies can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are key tips for hunting white-tailed deer during the rut in Arkansas.
1. Understand the Rut Timeline
In Arkansas, the rut generally peaks from late November to early December, although it can vary depending on location and weather conditions. During this time, bucks are focused on finding mates, often resulting in increased daytime movement. Knowing the timing of the rut and the stages of deer behavior—pre-rut, peak rut, and post-rut—will help you plan your hunts more effectively.
- Pre-Rut (early November): Bucks start to show more signs of activity, like scrapes and rubs, but are still somewhat cautious. Focus on hunting near food sources and travel corridors leading to bedding areas.
- Peak Rut (late November): Bucks are actively chasing does. This is the best time to hunt near doe bedding areas, scrapes, and rub lines as bucks search for mates.
- Post-Rut (early December): Bucks are exhausted and less active, but still in search of late-estrus does. Hunting near food sources or known bedding areas can still be effective.
2. Focus on Doe Bedding Areas and Travel Routes
During the rut, bucks are more likely to be found near doe bedding areas and the trails that connect these areas to food sources. Look for areas with heavy doe activity, such as thick cover, agricultural fields, or areas with high concentrations of acorns and other food sources.
- Use Scrapes and Rubs: Bucks leave scrapes and rubs to mark their territory, and these signs are often concentrated around doe bedding areas. Position your stand near these signs, especially around natural funnels or travel corridors.
- Travel Routes: Identify the main travel routes between bedding and feeding areas. Set up along these routes to catch bucks as they move between locations in search of does.
3. Use Scent to Your Advantage
Scent control becomes even more critical during the rut, as bucks are actively searching for mates and using their noses to locate does. However, they are also more willing to tolerate foreign scents in this period. Still, using scent strategically can increase your chances.
- Estrous Scent: Using doe estrous scent during the peak rut can draw in curious bucks. Apply the scent near your stand or on scrapes. However, be cautious not to overuse it, as too much scent can alert wary bucks.
- Cover Your Scent: While bucks are distracted by the rut, don’t neglect scent control. Use scent-eliminating sprays and practice good hygiene (e.g., washing clothes with scent-free detergent, wearing rubber boots) to minimize your human odor.
4. Rattle and Call Strategically
Calling during the rut is one of the most effective tactics for attracting bucks, as they are more responsive to calling during this period. However, timing and technique are crucial to avoid spooking deer.
- Rattle: Bucks are often in a confrontational mood during the rut. Light rattling can mimic the sound of two bucks fighting, which may draw in an interested buck. Use soft to medium rattling early in the rut and increase the intensity as the rut peaks.
- Grunt Calls: A grunt call mimicking a doe or a buck can also be effective, especially during the pre-rut and peak rut. A series of short grunts can signal a buck’s interest in a nearby doe. Be careful not to overuse the grunt call—aim for subtlety.
5. Be Patient and Persistent
The rut is a time of unpredictable deer movement, and you might encounter periods of downtime between active phases. Bucks may travel widely and unpredictably in search of mates, so patience is key.
- Hunt All Day: Unlike other times of the season when deer are more active in the early morning and late evening, bucks during the rut can move throughout the day. Be prepared for longer sits and take advantage of midday hunting hours when bucks may be more likely to make a move.
- Stay in the Stand: Since rutting activity can happen at any time, it’s important to remain in your stand as much as possible. Even if things seem slow, the next big buck could be just around the corner.
6. Utilize Tree Stands and Blinds for Best Visibility
In Arkansas’ dense forests and varied terrain, tree stands or ground blinds offer better visibility and concealment. Positioning your stand in areas with clear sightlines—such as on ridge tops, near field edges, or overlooking travel routes—will improve your chances of spotting deer during the rut.
- Set Up Near Doe Bedding Areas: As bucks are actively seeking does, set your stand in locations where does are bedding. This ensures you’re positioned where bucks are likely to travel in search of mates.
- Use Elevated Stands for Better Visibility: In areas with heavy cover or tall grass, an elevated tree stand provides a broader view of deer movement. Being up high also helps reduce your scent’s impact and increases your chances of seeing deer from a distance.
Conclusion
The rut is a prime time for white-tailed deer hunting in Arkansas, but it requires a tailored strategy. By understanding deer behavior during the rut, focusing on doe bedding areas, using scent and calls effectively, and practicing patience, you can significantly increase your chances of success. With the right preparation and mindset, the rut in Arkansas offers hunters the opportunity to bag their trophy buck.
