If you're getting depressed because the rut is over (in most areas of the country, anyway), don't despair. There's still a key phase to come that is actually favored by some very good whitetail hunters.
The second rut, or more precisely the time when the does that didn't get bred during the first cycle will come into estrous again, happens one month after the peak of the rut. There is also a small percentage of does that don't go into estrous during the traditional peak and will be ready to mate for the first time during this so-called "second rut." Scents and calls can be effective.
Despite the fact that some mating will occur, if you aren't seeing deer, move back to more traditional stands near food sources. Both bucks and does will soon to begin to focus on getting ready for winter, and that means putting on some fat. Give up on the buck sign and gravitate toward the food.
Read Recent Tip of the Week:
• The Rut Is Critical! One thing every deer hunter should know is the approximate time of the whitetail breeding season in the area they hunt.