Quick Answer
For luring Virginia whitetails during the rut, use calls that mimic the sounds of a doe in distress or a buck fighting for dominance, such as the grunt and snort-wheeze combinations. Diaphragm calls, such as the Primos Double Diaphragm, excel at producing these sounds. A good call can be all it takes to bring a buck in close.
Calls for the Rut
When choosing a call for the Virginia rut, look for diaphragm calls that can produce a wide range of sounds, from soft grunts to loud snort-wheezes. The Primos Double Diaphragm, for example, can produce up to 20 different sounds, including the critical doe-in-distress and buck-fighting grunts. A good diaphragm call will allow you to mimic the sounds of a doe in estrus and a buck fighting for dominance, increasing the chances of attracting a buck in close.
Strategies for Effective Calling
To use your call effectively, start by making a series of soft grunts to locate a buck in the area. Once you’ve found a buck, move in close and start making louder, more aggressive calls to bring him in. A good rule of thumb is to make your calls in 10-15 second intervals, with 30-60 seconds of silence in between. This will allow you to mimic the natural sounds of a doe in distress or a buck fighting and give the buck time to respond. Remember to vary your calls and pay attention to the buck’s reaction, adjusting your calling strategy as needed.
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