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Sunday, November 8th, 2026

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There’s a lot going on when the whitetails lock down during the rut

The breeding phase of the rut is a different thing from the chase phase. What was once chaos is now something much more subdued. Why? Because when does go into estrus, their window to find a receptive mate lasts 24 to 48 hours. This can keep bucks from moving much, but it doesn’t slow down their need to keep going until the last does are bred. (File photo)

The pre-rut, and the chase phase of late October and early November, is a wild time to be in the woods. The bucks can’t help but cruise the countryside looking for a new girlfriend. It’s a prime window to be on stand. Then, everything changes.
The peak breeding phase falls before the firearm season is in full swing in some Upper Midwest states. Bowhunters take full advantage of the rut, but some of this activity carries into the rifle season.

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