Calling deer is an art form that takes practice, patience, and a deep understanding of deer behavior. When done correctly, calling can be a highly effective way to attract deer within shooting range. However, it is important to remember that calling is not a magic bullet. There is no guarantee that you will be successful every time you try. The best way to improve your chances of success is to learn as much as you can about deer behavior and calling techniques.
One of the most important things to remember when calling deer is that they are very sensitive to sound. Any sudden or unnatural noise can spook them and send them running. That is why it is important to be as quiet as possible when calling. Avoid making any unnecessary noise and move slowly and deliberately. You should also try to set up your calling stand in a location where you have a good view of the surrounding area. This will help you to spot deer before they spot you and give you a chance to call them in.
Identify Deer Vocalizations
Deer communicate using a variety of vocalizations, each serving a specific purpose. Understanding these vocalizations is crucial for effective deer hunting.
Grunts
Grunts are the most common vocalization emitted by deer. They are typically produced by both bucks and does and are used in various social contexts.
| Grunt Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Buck Grunt | Aggression, dominance, or breeding |
| Doe Grunt | Contact call between does and fawns, or a sign of distress |
| Fawn Grunt | A high-pitched call used by fawns to locate their mothers |
Grunts are a versatile communication tool that deer use to establish dominance, attract mates, or communicate danger. By imitating these grunts, hunters can effectively mimic deer to elicit a response or draw them closer.
Bleats
Bleats are typically uttered by fawns and are used to communicate distress or to attract their mothers. They are characterized by a series of short, high-pitched calls. Hunters can often capitalize on bleats by imitating a fawn’s cry to attract a doe or, in some cases, a curious buck.
Whistles
Whistles are unique vocalizations emitted by deer, primarily during the breeding season. They are characterized by a high-pitched, piercing sound and are typically used by dominant bucks to establish their presence and attract does. Hunters can sometimes utilize whistles to draw the attention of mature bucks during the rut.
Other Vocalizations
In addition to the main vocalizations mentioned above, deer produce various other sounds such as snorts, sniffs, and clicks. These noises often indicate an alert state, fear, or curiosity.
Choose the Right Calling Location
Selecting the ideal calling location is crucial for successful deer hunting. Here are key factors to consider:
Cover and Concealment
Choose a spot with ample cover to conceal your position from the deer’s keen eyesight. Natural features like brush, trees, and vegetation provide excellent concealment. Avoid open areas or locations with sparse vegetation where deer are easily spooked.
Wind Direction
Pay attention to the wind direction. Deer have an acute sense of smell and can readily detect human scent. Position yourself downwind from where you expect the deer to approach, so your scent is carried away from them.
Terrain
| Terrain | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Hillsides | Provides elevation for better visibility | Deer may be more cautious on open slopes |
| Valley Bottoms | Often contain food sources and water | Can be difficult to conceal yourself and control wind direction |
| Thickets | Excellent cover and concealment | Difficult to maneuver and get a clear shot |
| Open Meadows | Offers long-range visibility | Deer are more easily spooked and have limited cover |
Consider the terrain features when selecting your calling location. Utilize elevation to your advantage, as it allows you to cover more ground. However, avoid perching on exposed slopes, as this makes you more vulnerable to detection.
Master the Calling Technique
1. Equipment Selection
Choosing the right deer call is essential. Artificial calls come in various types, each with its own sound and range. Choose a call that imitates the bleat of a doe or the grunt of a buck, depending on your target species and hunting situation.
2. Practice Makes Perfect
Mastering deer calling requires dedicated practice. Head to a secluded area and practice making the desired sounds at different volumes and pitches. Use a mirror to observe your diaphragm and mouth movements for optimal performance.
3. Understanding Deer Communication
Understand the specific vocalizations deer use in various situations. Bucks use grunts to establish dominance, attract mates, or defend territory. Does bleat to communicate with their fawns or as a distress call. Study deer behavior and sounds to call them effectively.
4. Field Strategies for Calling Success
a. Pre-Hunt Scouting: Identify areas where deer are likely to be based on tracks, droppings, or food sources. Conduct pre-hunt scouting to determine where to set up your calling location.
b. Choosing the Right Location: Call from a downwind position to avoid spooking the deer. Use natural cover, such as trees or brush, to conceal your presence.
c. Timing and Sequence: Call at specific times of day, such as early morning or late evening, when deer are most active. Start with low-volume calls and gradually increase the volume and urgency to provoke a response. Table 1 below provides a guide to calling sequences:
| Sequence | Call Type | Volume | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial | Doe Bleat | Soft | 3-5 seconds |
| Follow-Up | Buck Grunt | Moderate | 7-10 seconds |
| Challenge | Aggressive Grunt | Loud | 12-15 seconds |
**d. Patience and Persistence:** Calling for deer requires patience and persistence. Stay still and silent while listening for a response. If you don’t receive a response, try different call sequences or move to a new location.
Timing Your Calls
The timing of your calls is just as important as where you place them. Deer are most active during the early morning and late evening. This is generally considered the best time to call them in. Securing the deer’s attention first is key. Remember to keep your eyes peeled while calling, as it’sn’t uncommon to have a deer walk up directly behind you.
Morning Calls
The best time to start calling in the morning is right before daybreak. As the first sign of light appears, bucks will begin to get up and move around. Calling at this time can help you locate a buck that is moving towards a food source or bedding area.
Evening Calls
The evening is another good time to call deer. As the sun starts to set, bucks will begin moving from their bedding areas to their feeding areas. Calling during this time can help you intercept a buck that is on its way to dinner.
Wind Direction
The wind direction is also an important factor to consider when timing your calls. Deer rely on their sense of smell to detect danger. When the wind is blowing in your favor, your calls will travel further and deer will be less likely to smell you.
Weather Conditions
The weather can also affect the timing of your calls. Deer are less likely to be active during inclement weather. If it is raining, snowing, or windy, you may want to wait to call until the weather conditions improve.
Hunter Activity
The amount of hunter activity in an area can also affect the timing of your calls. If there is a lot of hunter activity during certain times of the day, you may want to call at times that are less likely to be hunted.
The following table provides a summary of the best times to call deer based on the time of day and wind direction:
| Time of Day | Wind Direction |
|---|---|
| Morning | Blowing in your favor |
| Evening | Blowing in your favor |
| Windy conditions | Not recommended |
| Rainy or snowy conditions | Not recommended |
Patience and Practice
Patience
Deer hunting, like any type of hunting, demands a significant amount of patience. Deer are secretive and elusive creatures by nature. Being patient and waiting for the perfect opportunity to make a shot is essential. This means being willing to sit still for hours, even if you don’t see anything. Patience is also important when tracking deer. Don’t rush the process or cut corners; take your time and follow the signs carefully. With patience, you are more likely to be successful in your pursuit.
Practice
In addition to patience, practicing calling deer is crucial. There are many different ways to call deer, each with its own unique set of techniques and sounds. The best way to improve your calling skills is through practice. There are many resources available to help you learn, such as DVDs, books, and online videos. You can also practice on your own or with a mentor.
One of the most important aspects of practicing is learning to sound like a natural deer. This takes time and effort, but it is well worth it. Deer are very sensitive to unnatural sounds, so it is important to be able to mimic their calls as accurately as possible. With practice, you will be able to call deer in consistently.
Table
| Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Learn the basics of deer calling | Practice on your own or with a mentor | Be patient and persistent |
Additional Tips
- Use the right type of call for the situation and the time of year.
- Practice regularly to improve your skills.
- Be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
- Be aware of the wind direction and use it to your advantage.
- Stay hidden and don’t move if you see deer.
Using Scent and Decoys
Scent Lures
Scent lures are a powerful tool for attracting deer. They come in various forms, including liquid, gel, and granules. Choose scents that mimic natural deer attractants, such as doe urine, buck urine, or food scents like apples or corn.
To use scent lures effectively:
- Apply sparingly: A little goes a long way. Overuse can overwhelm deer and deter them.
- Place strategically: Position lures near trails, travel routes, or food sources where deer are likely to pass.
- Use seasonally: Different scents are more effective at different times of year. For example, doe urine works well during the breeding season.
Decoys
Deer decoys can be used to lure deer closer for a shot. Choose a decoy that mimics the size, shape, and posture of the deer you are hunting.
When using decoys:
- Set up naturalistically: Position the decoy in a realistic pose, such as feeding or browsing.
- Provide cover: Place the decoy behind some brush or trees to make it less noticeable.
- Use multiple decoys: A group of decoys can create a more realistic scene and attract multiple deer.
| Type of Scent Lure | Best Time to Use |
|---|---|
| Doe Urine | Breeding Season |
| Buck Urine | Territorial Season |
| Food Scents (apples, corn) | Year-Round, Especially During Food Scarcity |
Safety Considerations
1. Wear appropriate clothing
Wear blaze orange or other bright clothing to make yourself visible to other hunters. Avoid wearing dark colors, which can make you blend in with the surroundings and increase the risk of being mistaken for game.
2. Be aware of your surroundings
Be aware of where other hunters are located and avoid calling in their direction. Always know the location of your hunting partners and keep in contact with them.
3. Use a decoy
Using a deer decoy can help to attract deer and make them more likely to approach your calling spot. Place the decoy in a natural-looking position and be patient, as it may take some time for deer to approach.
4. Be prepared to shoot
If a deer approaches your calling spot, be prepared to shoot. Have your rifle or bow ready and take your time to get a clean shot. Remember to always follow safe shooting practices.
5. Hunting from an elevated stand
Hunting deer from an elevated stand can provide you with an advantage over deer, as they will have a harder time seeing you. Make sure your stand is sturdy and secure, and always use a safety harness when hunting from an elevated position.
6. Hunting in thick cover
Hunting deer in thick cover can be more challenging, but it can also be more rewarding. Be patient and move slowly and quietly through the cover. Use your eyes and ears to scan for deer and be prepared to shoot if you get a good opportunity.
7. Hunting in open areas
Hunting deer in open areas can be more difficult, as deer will be able to see you from a greater distance. Use cover to your advantage and try to approach deer from downwind. Be patient and be prepared to take a long shot if necessary.
8. Calling deer in different weather conditions
The weather can have a significant impact on deer behavior and your ability to call them in. Here are some tips for calling deer in different weather conditions:
| Weather Condition | Tips |
|---|---|
| Rainy | Deer may be less active in the rain, but they can still be called in. Use soft calls and be patient. |
| Windy | The wind can make it difficult for deer to hear your calls. Use louder calls and be aware of the wind direction. |
| Snowy | Deer may be more difficult to see in the snow, but their tracks can help you to locate them. Use soft calls and be patient. |
| Cold | Deer may be less active in the cold, but they can still be called in. Use soft calls and be patient. |
| Hot | Deer may be less active in the heat, but they can still be called in. Use soft calls and be patient. |
Tactical Movement
To call a deer effectively, tactical movement is crucial. Here are some key strategies to follow:
1. Choose the Right Wind
Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell. Approach from downwind so your scent won’t alert them to your presence.
2. Move Slowly and Quietly
Deer are sensitive to movement. Take slow and deliberate steps, avoiding any sudden movements or loud noises.
3. Break Your Outline
Deer can easily spot human outlines. Break up your shape by bending or crouching low to the ground and using vegetation for cover.
4. Use Natural Cover
Utilize trees, bushes, and terrain features to conceal your movement. Avoid walking in open areas or standing out prominently.
5. Avoid Eye Contact
Eye contact can spook deer. If you encounter one, quickly glance away and avoid staring directly at them.
6. Scout Your Area
Before calling, scout the area for deer trails and bedding sites. This will help you anticipate their movements and plan your approach.
7. Be Patient
Deer calling requires patience. Sit or stand still for extended periods and listen attentively for any sign of deer activity.
8. Don’t Overcall
Calling too frequently can spook deer. Use short, intermittent calls to avoid overwhelming their senses.
9. Consider the Time of Day
Deer are most active during dawn and dusk. These times provide the best opportunities for calling, as deer are more likely to be feeding or moving.
| Time of Day | Best for Calling |
|—|—|
| Dawn | Yes |
| Midday | No |
| Dusk | Yes |
| Night | No |
Respecting Wildlife Regulations
When calling deer, it is imperative to be mindful of applicable fish and wildlife regulations and laws. Violating these regulations can result in severe penalties and can jeopardize the long-term health of deer populations. Here are some key guidelines to follow:
Obtaining Proper Permits and Licenses
In many jurisdictions, it is a legal requirement to obtain a hunting or wildlife management permit before engaging in wildlife calling activities. Ensure you have the appropriate license and tags, as well as any necessary stamps or endorsements.
Hunting Seasons and Bag Limits
Deer hunting seasons and bag limits vary widely between regions. Before calling deer, consult local regulations to determine the specific dates, times, and bag limits applicable to your area. Hunting outside of designated seasons or exceeding bag limits is considered poaching and can result in significant fines and penalties.
Designated Hunting Areas
Some areas may be designated as wildlife refuges or sanctuaries, where hunting is prohibited. Make sure you are aware of the boundaries of these areas and avoid calling deer within them. Hunting in restricted areas is illegal and can lead to charges.
Noise Restrictions
In some areas, there may be restrictions on the use of noise-producing devices, including deer calls. Check local regulations to determine if there are any specific noise regulations or time limits during which deer calling is permitted.
Respecting Private Property
When calling deer, it is essential to respect private property boundaries. Obtain permission from landowners before accessing private property to hunt or call deer. Trespassing on private land is a crime and can carry serious consequences.
Using Ethical Calling Tactics
Deer calling should be conducted in a responsible and ethical manner. Avoid overcalling or using excessive volume, as this can disturb other wildlife and increase the risk of an accidental encounter.
Avoiding Harassment of Wildlife
Do not pursue or harass deer excessively. If a deer does not respond to your calling, continue moving quietly and respectfully. Relentless pursuit of wildlife can stress animals and disrupt their natural behavior.
Compliance with Regulations
Always abide by local regulations and consult with wildlife authorities if you have any questions or concerns. Being compliant with regulations is essential for preserving wildlife populations and ensuring ethical hunting practices.
Penalties for Violations
Violations of wildlife regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines, license revocation, and even imprisonment. Familiarize yourself with the consequences of violating regulations to avoid potential legal issues.
Respect for Wildlife
Ultimately, the goal of responsible deer calling is to enjoy the outdoors while respecting both wildlife and the regulations that protect them. By adhering to these guidelines, you can engage in ethical and sustainable hunting practices that ensure the well-being of deer populations for generations to come.
How to Call a Deer
Calling deer is a great way to get close to these magnificent animals and experience the thrill of the hunt. However, deer are notoriously wary animals, so it is important to use the right techniques and equipment to be successful.
The best time to call deer is during the rut, which runs from late summer to early fall. During this time, bucks are actively searching for does, and they are more likely to respond to calls. You can also call deer during the spring and summer, but the success rate will be lower.
To call a deer, you will need a deer call and some patience. There are many different types of deer calls on the market, so you will need to experiment to find one that works best for you. Once you have a call, practice using it until you are comfortable with the sound. The best way to practice is to get as close as you can to a deer without spooking it. Call to the deer, and see if it responds. Repeat the process until you gain comfort.
When you are ready to hunt, find a spot where you think deer are likely to be. Set up your stand or blind and wait for the deer to come to you. Once you see a deer, start calling. Be patient and wait for the deer to come to you. If the deer does not come to you, try calling again. If the deer still does not come, you can try moving to a different spot.
People Also Ask About How to Call a Deer
How do you call a deer with a grunt?
To call a deer with a grunt, you will need to use a deer call that produces a grunting sound. Once you have a call, practice using it until you are comfortable with the sound. When you are ready to hunt, find a spot where you think deer are likely to be. Set up your stand or blind and wait for the deer to come to you. Once you see a deer, start calling. Use a series of short, sharp grunts. Be patient and wait for the deer to come to you.
How do you call a deer with a rattle?
To call a deer with a rattle, you will need a deer call that produces a rattling sound. Once you have a call, practice using it until you are comfortable with the sound. When you are ready to hunt, find a spot where you think deer are likely to be. Set up your stand or blind and wait for the deer to come to you. Once you see a deer, start calling. Use a series of short, sharp rattles. Be patient and wait for the deer to come to you.
How do you call a doe?
To call a doe, you will need a deer call that produces a doe bleat. Once you have a call, practice using it until you are comfortable with the sound. When you are ready to hunt, find a spot where you think deer are likely to be. Set up your stand or blind and wait for the deer to come to you. Once you see a doe, start calling. Use a series of short, soft bleats. Be patient and wait for the doe to come to you.
