Quick Answer
To call mule deer during the rut, use a combination of rattling antlers and grunting vocalizations to mimic the sounds of a rutting buck. Focus on making consistent, repetitive sounds to draw deer in. Use a high-quality caller and experiment with different sound patterns to find what works best in your area.
Rattling Antlers
When calling mule deer during the rut, rattling antlers can be an incredibly effective technique. To do this effectively, focus on making loud, sharp sounds by hitting two antler tines together. A good rule of thumb is to make 10-20 rattling sequences, pausing briefly between each sequence to allow the deer to respond. Experiment with different rattling patterns, such as short, staccato sequences or longer, more drawn-out ones, to see what works best in your area. In Colorado, where mule deer are known to be particularly responsive to rattling, it’s not uncommon for hunters to call in multiple bucks within a short period of time.
Grunting Vocalizations
In addition to rattling antlers, grunting vocalizations can be a powerful tool for calling mule deer during the rut. To make a grunting sound, place the barrel of your caller near your mouth and blow air through it, producing a deep, guttural noise. Start with short, low-pitched grunts and gradually increase the volume and frequency as you become more comfortable with the sound. Aim to make 5-10 grunts in a row, pausing briefly before repeating the sequence. In areas with high mule deer populations, such as the western slope of Colorado, grunting vocalizations can be especially effective during the peak of the rut.
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