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Best time to target that big buck? Don’t wait for the rut

Attempting to pattern a buck during the rut can quickly become an exercise in frustration. (Illustration by Michael Kensinger)

Rut-crazed bucks may be easier to encounter, but for a specific buck, early season may be better.
There’s no doubt that when it comes to increasing your chances at a trophy buck, the rut is prime time to be in the woods. With bucks blinded by lust, even a smart, cautious deer is more likely to cross in front of a hunter ready to take advantage of the opportunity.

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