The Pre-rut is on in Tennessee

[Dwight Davis]

A couple of days ago I had these 2 bucks come out at my food plot and sniff around for does. They circled around each other with their hair standing up on their necks for quiet some time. After a while they began to spar. I just knew that the fight was on. I have an acre and a half of wheat, clover, rape and 7top planted. I also have a half acre of corn planted to one side. They paid no attention to the food on this bow hunting morning. No, they were after does. Still just a little early for the rut here in Tennessee but they don't know it!

I have about 10 or so does using the field every day. The only bucks I've seen so far have been small ones, not shooters. I have taken my share of bucks over the almost 40 years I have been hunting deer and now a days I prefer taking movies and still pictures. But let ole big boy come out chasing my does and he is in trouble. I consider a big one 8 points or better.

Speaking of chasing does, it is now officially unsafe to drive Tennessee roads at night because of the bucks chasing does out in front of you. (It is 3:31 pm and 2 does just walked out into my field) Most everyone I work with comes in telling a story about some deer that they just missed hitting with their auto. (Oh, by the way my deer stand is enclosed with gas heat, insulated windows and carpet. I don't rough it much anymore.)

We have a bumper crop of white oak acorns this year and am surprised that the deer are coming to the food plots. I guess like us they like a variety. Looking through my binoculars I can see they like the clover and wheat the best. A couple of afternoons I had 10 does in the field so it is just a matter of time.

Well, I need to put this laptop away and pay a little more attention so good hunting.

Dwight