Close Menu
    What's Hot

    Evening Turkey Hunting: Expert Strategies for Sunset Success

    April 27, 2025

    Ultimate Guide to 7mm Calibers

    April 24, 2025

    My Fitness Journey to be a Better Hunter

    April 23, 2025
    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    North American Deer Hunter North American Deer Hunter
    • Publications
      • North American Outdoorsman
      • North American Deer Hunter
      • North American Bowhunter
      • Crossbow Magazine
    • Authors
    • Partners
    • Newsletter
    Facebook Instagram YouTube
    PREMIUM
    • Hunting
      • Whitetail
      • Big Game
      • Bowhunting
      • Stories
      • How to Hunt
    • Gear
      • Gear We Love
      • Gear Reviews
      • New Product Announcements
    • Field to Table
    • News
      • Conservation
      • 2A & Carry
      • Press Releases
    • SWEEPSTAKES
    North American Deer Hunter North American Deer Hunter
    Home»Hunting»Bowhunting»Aggressive Archery Tactics for Rutting Mule Deer
    Bowhunting

    Aggressive Archery Tactics for Rutting Mule Deer

    Darron McDougalBy Darron McDougalNovember 26, 202211 Mins Read
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Telegram Tumblr Email
    hunting
    Rutting mule deer can be hunted very aggressively in the right situations. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN HAFNER
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email

    For the time of your bowhunting life, get aggressive with these big-eared deer

    It was now or never. I charged ahead through the scattered junipers, disregarding the bedded fawn watching me make the maneuver. My focus was on the grunts emitting from an old buck I’d first encountered one year earlier. He’d also been taunting me for the last few days in a wide-open wheat field with a large doe harem. But a wintery onslaught with fierce winds drove the harem down into an adjacent canyon. Based on his behavior and the satellite bucks circling like buzzards, at least one doe in the harem was hot.

    Positive I’d cut enough distance, I tucked into a juniper and waited. Then, I saw bits and pieces of the grunting buck through the branches. I drew just before he reached my opening. Mouth-grunting to stop him, I aimed and took the shot. It was by far the most aggressive maneuver I’ve made while deer hunting, and it yielded an old monarch mule deer.

    optics
    When non target deer are en route to a buck you want to go after stop and watch If the non target deer eventually move continue your approach If the target buck moves to a subsequent location re route to circumvent the other deer and then go get him PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL

    Mule Deer Rut

    Having grown up hunting Whitetails in the Midwest, my first few mule deer rut hunts treated me to a different type of hunting, and I’ve grown quite fond of it. Yes, deer are deer, but while mule deer have similarities to White- tails, I’ve found that they rut a bit differently. (At least, that’s so in cattle-ranch country where I’ve done all of my rut hunting.) How so? Let’s discuss.

    First, I’ve observed dominant bucks gathering doe harems—as many as 15 to 20 animals in a group—then guarding them from swarming satellite bucks looking for a way in.

    Dominant doesn’t necessarily mean that the harem leader has the largest antlers. He’s simply the oldest—or at least he’s the one with the biggest attitude. Unless his harem is pressured, he’s usually very predictable as compared to rutting Whitetail bucks. They are often here one minute and a mile away the next. Unlike ha- rem bucks, though, I’ve observed satellite bucks cruise between harems. So, dominant harem bucks are usually standers, and the satellites are roamers.

    The scene is quite similar to how elk rut. Many suc- cessful elk hunters are very aggressive, often charging into the action when the situation allows. That’s how I prefer to hunt rutting mule deer, and I’ve found success in that realm.

    bucks
    Cruising satellite bucks are looking either to challenge a harem buck or find a receptive doe The author spotted this buck and doe one afternoon and the following morning they were still together McDougal capitalized on a 61 yard shot opportunity after making an aggressive move PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL

    Debating Brainpower

    Before we advance to tactics, let me address a loom- ing debate. Some folks say that mule bucks are dumb compared to Whitetails, while others disagree entirely with that viewpoint. Huge mule deer bucks don’t get huge by being clueless; that’s a given. I’ve certainly spooked a few really big bucks during the rut, so don’t think you can just walk up and shoot a buck at any given time. But I’ve also encountered bucks that could see me and didn’t care. If the doe(s) the buck is intent on doesn’t spook, the buck will usually tolerate your presence until the girls bolt. In my experience, when comparing White- tails to mule deer, I think muleys are more inquisitive.

    They might offer a slightly longer window of opportunity in certain instances, but they’re far from dumb.

    Now, I’ve had success with being aggressive on rutting mule deer, so let’s roll into some tactics that can potentially earn you an opportunity to draw your bow during the mule deer rut.

    ranch
    Ranch country in South Dakota is where the author has done his mule deer rut hunting and it offers a nice mixture of habitat for deer and stalking terrain for aggressive hunters PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL
    80 North

    Decoying

    Given a mule deer’s natural curiosity, decoys are the perfect play in many instances, especially when a tra- ditional stalk won’t suffice because of a lack of cover.

    Remember what I said about harem bucks nudging satellite bucks away? Well, get an antlered decoy like the Ultimate Predator and fake your way into a shot oppor- tunity. This is sometimes the only way to bowhunt deer living in a wide-open field far from any cover.

    Here’s how to do it. Approach the harem from downwind using whatever cover is available. Get as close as the cover allows. One hundred yards or closer is ideal since this range infringes on the dominant buck’s com- fort zone. Slowly present the decoy to the buck when he’s not looking. If he doesn’t notice it, consider a grunt or snort-wheeze. I’ve witnessed bucks challenge one another several times with grunting and snort-wheezing. It won’t work every time but be prepared for a fast-un- folding opportunity when it does. Also, count on the buck circling downwind as he enters bow range.

    As a caution, know that using a decoy is at your discretion and could become dangerous if the buck charges. Further, never use decoys when a firearm season is open, as the decoy could be mistaken for a real deer, potentially putting you in someone’s line of fire.

    If you’re trying to intercept a cruising satellite buck, remove the antlers to make the decoy a doe. Bucks cruising during the rut are looking for does. If they catch one alone away from a harem, they play for keeps. If the decoy doesn’t get the buck’s attention, pitch him an estrus bleat. From there, he’ll see the decoy. If he comes, get ready. If he keeps moving, try to get ahead of him and present the decoy from another angle.

    Charge!

    In a situation where multiple deer are in cover and rutting like crazy, sometimes you can charge right in. The buck I referenced at the start of this article was total- ly in estrus heaven. He was grunting almost nonstop, fending off other bucks and sniffing does. The scattered junipers provided security cover. He was completely comfortable there. So, when he was obstructed by cover, I disregarded the fawn that could see me and charged in. I hunkered down and got my opportunity only moments later.

    deer
    Mule deer are highly inquisitive and territorial If youre targeting a buck in a harem challenge him with a buck decoy If youre pursuing a roaming satellite buck present him with a doe decoy PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL

    When To Make A Move?

    Situations like these aren’t very common, but they do occur. The difficult part is deciding when to make the quick move. I’d suggest letting the rutting chaos get well underway.

    Then, have landmarks that you can reach one at a time whenever the deer are obstructed or distracted. You can’t always make the move all at once. As far as noise, you can likely get away with some if you sound somewhat like a deer.

    You can develop a feel for when to seize the opportunity through trial and error. If your other ploys aren’t working, don’t be afraid to try this all-or-nothing move in the right scenario.

    It has worked for me, and it could work for you, too. And in doubt, use a decoy like the Ultimate Predator for coverage.

    Stalk Fast

    In the early season before the rut, a bed- ded mule deer buck is liable to stay in his bed most of the day. He might stand periodically to browse or to adjust as the sunlight spills into his once-shaded bed. Regardless, unless he’s spooked, he’ll typically remain in that immediate area most of the day. This gives you the latitude to stalk very slowly and cautiously.

    Rutting mule deer are less predictable. With colder temperatures and hot does on the loose, a bedded buck could get up and move anytime. So, if you’ve spotted a bedded buck that you want to stalk—especially if he’s alone—don’t waste time. Get the wind right, pick a route and go.

    I did this on my first mule deer rut hunt back in 2013, and when I peeked over an embankment, the buck was only 23 yards away still bedded.

    With the rut going in early November, I’m not sure he’d have still been there had I been slow. I made the shot and took that buck back to Wisconsin.

    optics
    An aggressive mule deer rut hunter makes many decisions and often with little time to make them PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN HAFNER

    When To Be Passive

    Of course, the aggressive tactics we’ve dis- cussed don’t fit every single situation. Sometimes that means you need to let off the accelerator just a bit. Let’s discuss a few situations when this is the case.

    When non-target deer are between you and your target buck, you’ll typically spook them if you press on, and they’ll alert your buck to your pres- ence. In this case, hunker down and watch. Wait until they move out of the way and then continue approaching. Or, if your target buck moves to a more suitable position, reroute to circumvent the other deer and move in.

    In situations where deer daily move between canyons and agriculture, look for tendencies in their travel routes. If you nail down a location bucks are consistently moving through, consider a stationary ambush — given an ideal wind direc- tion — either in the form of a treestand, natural blind or pop-up blind set against a hay bale or buried in tumbleweeds.

    There might be more situations in which you should backpedal, but the final one I’ll note is when does in the harem have you pegged. Even if the buck is preoccupied and hasn’t a clue you exist, on-edge does can squelch your opportunity instantly. Don’t move a muscle.

    If the wind is in your favor, odds are good that the buck will begin pushing the does around again and that they’ll forget about you. Or, given their inquisitive nature, they may walk your direc- tion attempting to identify you. The buck could very well follow and give you a shot.

    Rut Fun

    Few things in bowhunting rival the rush of going after rutting mule deer bucks using aggressive tactics. Should you embark on a mule deer rut hunt this fall or in the future, you now have a few more tools to add to your bag. Although I can’t guarantee that they’ll work every time, I can tell you that they’ve yielded a handful of beautiful bucks for me. All you can do is try them out for yourself and see.

    hunting
    When circumstances arent ideal for aggressive operations look for scenarios in which mule deer are daily moving between canyons and agriculture Assume a stationary ambush if you can identify a well used travel route But always be attentive to opportunities to get aggressive PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA MCDOUGAL

    WHEN DO MULE DEER RUT?

    In the northern area of the mule deer’s range—the Kansas plains and surrounding vicinities clear up into Canada—mule deer start doing rut things as early as late October. Most of the breeding I’ve witnessed oc- curs in the middle of November. It likely peaks between November 15 to 25. I don’t have science to back this; it’s just been my observation while hunting.

    Moving south to Arizona, New Mexico and Texas, the muleys rut a bit later. Things might begin at the end of November, but the untamed action will come in the middle of December and cross over into January. This should help you time your hunt. For a closer estimate on timing, discuss it with a local biologist or game war- den in the area you’ll be hunting.

    darron
    Darron McDougal charged into a harem of rutting mule deer with hot does and satellites swarming His tactical operation yielded the boss buck PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA MCDOUGAL

    Per our affiliate disclosure, we may earn revenue from the products available on this page.

    November 2022
    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    DarronMcDougal
    Darron McDougal
    • Facebook
    • Instagram

    Darron McDougal, a full-time freelance outdoor writer, has resided in central Wisconsin for his entire life, except for a 2-year jaunt during which he and his wife, Becca, traveled and lived in a fifth-wheel camper. Becca often hunts with Darron and is an integral part of his publishing success, capturing professional-grade photography that often accompanies his articles. The McDougals do minimal deer hunting around their home. Instead, they love to hunt DIY-style, primarily on public lands, out west. Hunting unfamiliar territory has its thrills and challenges, and it truly tests a hunter's prowess. Despite the low success odds of this hunting style, Darron has done very well, and he accredits his success and accomplishments to God. So far, he's hunted whitetails in 11 states and harvested deer in nine. He enjoys hunting all sorts of wild game from turkeys to hogs to elk. He also occasionally mentors youth or beginner hunters. While bowhunting is his preferred method, he doesn't think twice when a rifle, shotgun or muzzleloader hunt fits his schedule. He's been shooting archery for nearly three decades and has 20 years of hunting experience.

    Related Posts

    My Fitness Journey to be a Better Hunter

    April 23, 2025

    Tree Stand vs. Ground Blind: Which is Best for Your Hunting Style?

    March 4, 2025

    Best Compact Binoculars for Hunting

    February 26, 2025

    Salt Lick For Deer: Why, When, and Where

    January 16, 2025

    The 5 Most Dangerous Game Animals to Hunt: Survival Tips from a Veteran Hunter

    January 2, 2025

    Still Hunting – Tips from the Master

    November 8, 2024
    Top Posts

    The 30-30 Lever Action Hunting Rifle

    October 17, 2024

    The Hunt for Barnacle Bill, a Pennsylvania Giant

    March 6, 2023

    Review: Browning X Bolt Speed LR

    August 29, 2023
    Stay In Touch
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
    • Instagram

    NADH is the authority on hunting the most popular big game animal in North America, the white tailed deer, plus other species of big game from around the world. Readers will have access to passionate, skilled hunters and be able to learn form their experiences in all aspects of Big Game hunting.

    Recent Articles
    • Evening Turkey Hunting: Expert Strategies for Sunset Success
    • Ultimate Guide to 7mm Calibers
    • My Fitness Journey to be a Better Hunter
    • Bucket List Hunt for Deer in Velvet
    • Must-Have Deer Hunting Gear
    Quick Links
    • Current Issue
    • Partners
    • Advertise with Us
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    Useful Resources
    • Subscribe to our Newsletter
    • Save on Gear
    • Hunting Resources
    • Where to Hunt
    • Where to Shoot
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Affiliate Marketing Disclosure
    © 2025 Outdoor Specialty Media. Designed by Crossroads Marketing.
    • North American Outdoorsman
    • North American Deer Hunter
    • North American Bowhunter
    • Crossbow Magazine

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.