Targeting Late Season Bucks
Written By: Ryan Reading, Fall Obsession Pro Staff
With the rut winding down, bucks often shift their behavior and focus; making late-season hunting a unique challenge. Here are 8 key strategies and areas of focus to help you nab a big buck late in the season:
1) Understand Post-Rut Behavior
Recovery Mode: Bucks are worn out and need to replenish their energy reserves. They’ll focus on feeding and resting.
Reduced Movement: They move less during the day and focus on staying in secure areas.
Solitary Tendencies: Bucks often return to their core areas and become less social.
2) Focus on Food Sources
Late-season bucks prioritize high-energy food to prepare for winter. Key food sources include:
Agricultural Fields: Corn, soybeans, or winter wheat if they’re still available.
Natural Browse: Acorns, woody browse, and other natural winter food sources.
Food Plots: Brassicas, turnips, or other late-season food plots if managed on the property.
Timing: Bucks often feed during the last light of the day. Position near food sources but avoid spooking them.
3) Key In on Bedding Areas
Bucks need safe bedding areas to rest and recover. Look for:
Thick cover near food sources.
South-facing slopes where they can soak up sunlight and stay warmer.
Remote or hard-to-access areas that provide security.
4) Hunt Cold Fronts and Weather Shifts
Bucks often move more during cold fronts or significant weather changes as they seek food or shift to late season patterns.
A sharp drop in temperature can trigger daytime movement.
5) Stay Stealthy and Patient
Access Routes: Use low-impact entry and exit routes to avoid disturbing feeding or bedding areas.
Scent Control: Bucks are cautious after the rut, so scent management becomes critical.
Timing: Spend time observing patterns before making a move. Patient hunters who target specific deer with the right conditions can be successful.
6) Utilize Trail Cameras
Set cameras near food sources, bedding areas, and travel corridors to monitor movement patterns.
Focus on specific bucks rather than relying on general rut activity.
7) Hunt Transition Areas
Bucks will often travel between bedding and feeding areas. Look for:
Funnels and pinch points.
Heavy trails leading from bedding to food.
Edges of cover and terrain changes.
8) Capitalize on Doe Activity
Some does may still come into estrus late in the season, and bucks will check doe bedding areas just in case. If you see a does menstruation in the snow, you may be in luck and found a hot doe still ready to breed. Look for does menstruation in the snow.
Focus on areas where does congregate, as bucks may still roam nearby.
By understanding the post-rut dynamics and focusing on food, cover, and weather patterns, you can increase your chances of taking a big buck even after the peak rut has passed.