Iowa is entering the "chase" phase of the rut which can be one of the most exciting times for deer hunters.
"Chase Phase" This is the phase most hunters associate with the rut. Mature deer are moving in broad daylight, and activity is nearly non-stop. Does are coming into estrous, and a buck will become her shadow until the time is right. This is typically a very exciting time as monster bucks magically appear and disappear. Fields that normally experienced regular feeding activity can often become frustratingly inconsistent. Big bucks are often extremely aggressive and vocal. They'll often respond to calls unless they’re with a doe.
"Peak Breeding" This usually occurs within a week of the Rutting Full Moon. This is the 2nd full moon after the equinox. Physiological changes in does cause the majority of the doe herd to come into heat at nearly the same time (give or take a few days). This year the rutting full moon was November 10th which would place "peak breeding" around the 17th. One of the most frustrating characteristics of peak breeding is “lockdown.” Bucks are nearly twice the size of does, and they corral a doe that is nearly ready to breed often standing over her to keep watch and keep other bucks at bay. One tell-tale sign there might be a hot doe and a big buck nearby is an immature buck that remains curiously in nearly the same spot for long periods of time. He is standing by, ready to swoop in for an opportunity. Often, he can lead you to a trophy buck. If the wind is right and there is enough cover for stalk, this aggressive strategy works well especially when stand hunting becomes unproductive. Breeding is a tough time to be on stand, as activity comes to a crashing halt just days after the frenzied “chasing” phase. To be successful, you might try being mobile and aggressive.
"Post-Rut" Activity levels ramp back up to a secondary peak, but both feeding and travelling can be irregular. I have had good luck with this phase of the rut. Fall back on a feeding pattern or sit on those morning travel corridors close to bedding… patience pays off well as does try to resume their daily routine. Mature bucks will frantically check the herd to make sure the job is done, and this could bring them right by your stand.
Most of this information is adopted from the theories and research of Charles Alsheimer but it's blended with my experience and field notes. More information is available here. There are several factors that can suppress or enhance deer activity in your area and we'll talk more about those, plus a check on activity levels in the next blog.
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