Deer calling can be an effective way to bring them in close for a shot but it’s not as easy as it sounds. You have to know how to read the deer’s body language what calls to use and when to use them.
Body Language
The first step to calling deer is understanding their body language. You need to be able to read the deer’s body language to know if they’re interested in your call or if they’re getting ready to bolt.
There are a few things you should look for:
Ears: If the deer’s ears are forward it’s interested in what you’re saying. If they’re back the deer is not interested and may be getting ready to run.
Tail: A deer will usually tuck its tail when it runs but if you see a deer with its tail down it’s relaxed and may be receptive to your call.
Head: If the deer’s head is up and its nose is wrinkled it’s trying to figure out what’s going on. This is usually a good sign as the deer is curious about your call.
Legs: If the deer’s legs are tense and it looks like it’s getting ready to run stop calling. You don’t want to spook the deer.
Calls
There are a few different types of calls you can use to attract deer. The most common are grunt calls doe bleats and fawn distress calls.
Grunt calls are used to imitate the sound of a buck grunting. You can use these to stop a buck in its tracks or to bring one in from a distance.
Doe bleats are used to imitate the sound of a doe in heat. You can use these to bring in bucks that are looking for a mate or to stop a doe that’s about to walk away.
Fawn distress calls are used to imitate the sound of a fawn in distress. These calls can be effective in bringing in both does and bucks as they’re instinctively drawn to the sound of a distressed fawn.
When to Call
The best time to call deer is during the rut which is the mating season. This is when bucks are most active and when they’re looking for does.
You can also call deer during the pre-rut and post-rut but your results may vary. These are the times when bucks are starting to look for does or when they’re done mating for the season.
How to Call
Now that you know what calls to use and when to use them it’s time to learn how to call deer. The most important thing to remember is to start slowly and build up to a louder volume.
If you start off too loud you’ll spook the deer. If you start off too soft the deer won’t be able to hear you.
Start with a few short grunts then wait a few minutes to see if the deer responds. If it doesn’t try a few more grunts followed by a doe bleat or fawn distress call.
If the deer still doesn’t respond stop calling and wait a few minutes. You don’t want to overdo it and spook the deer.
Final Thoughts
Calling deer can be an effective way to bring them in close for a shot but you have to know what you’re doing. Start by learning to read the deer’s body language then move on to using the different types of calls.
Remember to start slowly and build up to a louder volume. And finally only call during the rut for the best results.
How do you properly call a deer?
You need to use a grunt call a doe bleat call or a rattling technique to properly call a deer.
What is the best time of day to call deer?
The best time of day to call deer is in the early morning or evening.
How do you use a grunt call to call deer?
You need to place the call in your mouth and use your vocal cords to make a grunting sound.
How do you use a doe bleat call to call deer?
You need to place the call in your mouth and use your vocal cords to make a bleating sound.
How do you use a rattling technique to call deer?
You need to grab a set of antlers and bang them together to make a loud noise.
What should you do if a deer approaches you?
You should stay still and remain calm.
What should you do if a deer doesn’t approach you?
You should try another call or move to a different location.
What are some common mistakes people make when calling deer?
Some common mistakes people make when calling deer include making too much noise moving too much and not being patient.
How can you avoid making too much noise when calling deer?
You can avoid making too much noise by using a call that doesn’t require you to move your mouth too much and by avoiding talking or laughing.
How can you avoid moving too much when calling deer?
You can avoid moving too much by staying still and avoiding sudden movements.
How can you be more patient when calling deer?
You can be more patient by remaining still and calm and by not calling too frequently.
What are some other things you can do to increase your chances of success when calling deer?
Some other things you can do to increase your chances of success when calling deer include using cover and hiding your movements and calling from a downwind location.
What is the best type of cover to use when calling deer?
The best type of cover to use when calling deer is dense brush or trees.
How can hiding your movements help you when calling deer?
Hiding your movements can help you because deer are very wary animals and will be more likely to approach if they don’t see you moving.
Why is it important to call from a downwind location?
It is important to call from a downwind location because deer have a very keen sense of smell and will be able to smell you if you are upwind from them.
