2nd vs, 3rd

[Mountaindreamer]

Just curious if most guys would rather hunt mule deer in a top unit during 2nd season or a lesser unit in the 3rd season.

 

[HiMtnHntr]

It depends. If they're in the same herd unit, probably 3rd. Ex: 66/67 2nd vs. 54/55 3rd. The problem with second is, unless you have good Intel or have scouted, the big guys can be tough to find. The weather is often warm and they just aren't chasing yet. 3rd can be warm, too, but there's more of a chance bucks are starting to chase.

 

[Mountaindreamer]

If you do plan to hunt 2nd, can you scout in August or September and expect to find deer in the same places?

 

[Founder]

Quite likely if you find one scouting, he'll be close in October. Heavy snow could move him, but that's not common unless it's a buck living at 11k+ feet.
If you can scout and find one, the 2nd season is better in my opinion. If you don't scout, the 3rd is the better option because you have a better chance of getting lucky then with the rut kicking in late in the hunt.

Brian Latturner
MonsterMuleys.com
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[Katoom]

Assuming average weather conditions and a mid-elevation hunt, what would be the typical mature mule deer buck's activity pattern in a lightly hunted area / second season scenario when the rut doesnt yet factor? Do they linger out longer or move more if they are not overly pressured or is the hold tight/nocturnal behavior governed more by hormones than anything else?