Effective Calls To Use With A Buck Decoy During Rut?

Choosing the Right Calls

When selecting calls to use with a buck decoy, it’s essential to mimic the sounds of a doe in distress or a rival buck. Grunts are a great starting point, as they signal alarm and aggression. Use a series of three to five grunts, each lasting 2-3 seconds, with a 10-15 second pause between sequences. To increase the effectiveness of your calls, consider adding a bleat or two, which can signal a doe’s distress or a young fawn’s plea for assistance.

Sequencing and Pacing

To create a believable scenario, vary the sequencing and pacing of your calls. For example, you might start with a series of grunts, followed by a bleat, and then a snort-wheezer to mimic a buck’s threat display. This sequence can be repeated 2-3 times, with a 5-10 minute break in between to allow the buck to respond and re-approach the decoy. When using a snort-wheezer, aim for 3-5 repetitions, each lasting 3-5 seconds, with a 10-15 second pause between snorts.

Using Visual Cues

In addition to calling, consider using visual cues to draw the buck in. A buck decoy can be an effective tool on its own, but combining it with calls and visual cues can be even more effective. Use a combination of movement and stillness to create a believable scenario, such as having the decoy enter the scene, then freeze, and finally move again. This can help to create a sense of uncertainty and curiosity in the buck, drawing it in for a closer look.