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Big Game Hunting => Deer Hunting => Topic started by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:40:12 PM


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Title: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:40:12 PM
 In 1997 I changed up my whitetail tactics and decided to try rattling. On my first attempt I rattled in and killed a medium sized 5x5. Needless to say I was hooked! From then on I decided to focus my energy on learning how to be efficient enough to harvest a deer this way soley. I watched a ton of videos, read a bunch of articles and spent a lot of time practicing. Since then I've killed a buck I rattled in every year but one. Most bucks have been on public land. My style has evolved into moving from spot to spot hoping to see no deer until I've crashed the horns. I don't even want to see a good buck I didn't rattle in as I will pass it up. I may, however, shoot it later if I rattle it in.
 At first I had a hard time passing up smaller bucks because of the excitement. Over time and rattling in a LOT of deer I've found the patience to hold out for the bigger bucks. My methods now will usually only bring in the more aggressive deer and scare the crud out of the younger ones.
 Rattling works BIG TIME! I thought I'd start a thread for deer that have been rattled in. I will gladly share techniques with anyone interested in a pm. Here are a few of mine from either MT or ID starting with my first one.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:42:25 PM
A few more.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:43:54 PM
All but the spike were rattled in.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:45:50 PM
 My daughters first deer we actually rattled in. He would have gotten his arse kicked!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:48:09 PM
 My biggest buck on the left and my buddys' on the right. Shot him at 15'.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:50:25 PM
 Unfortunately the field pics didn't turn out on this buck but here is the mount.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 03:53:46 PM
 A couple more.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: grundy53 on July 22, 2012, 03:58:27 PM
Very nice! I definitely need to learn how to rattle better. Never had any luck doing it. But I really want to learn.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 04:01:16 PM
 A buck I rattled in for my friend.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 04:06:21 PM
 My son set up in a typical spot for us. Probably not what most people would envision as a likely spot.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: ellensburgpo on July 22, 2012, 04:13:50 PM
Great pictures. Were these all on public land?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 04:19:23 PM
Great pictures. Were these all on public land?
All of those were on public land.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: SkookumHntr on July 22, 2012, 04:25:11 PM
Wow! Im definetly going to have to get some pointers from ya for my hunt this year!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 04:30:52 PM
any killed in washington??  very nice
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 04:42:39 PM
any killed in washington??  very nice
My Washington tag is dedicated to my true hunting love, blacktails!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 05:10:16 PM
with the seasons the way they are in washington, when have you found it to be most effective to rattle?  if you had an ideal period, with respect to the season dates, when would it be?  rifle or archery?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: buckfvr on July 22, 2012, 05:13:44 PM
very end of october to about the 10th of november has been the window of activity for us.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 05:21:57 PM
does it trickle as long as late november, or is that considered post rut and they don't rattle then.  sure do see a lot of guys with bucks that have swollen necks. 
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 05:23:59 PM
with the seasons the way they are in washington, when have you found it to be most effective to rattle?  if you had an ideal period, with respect to the season dates, when would it be?  rifle or archery?
I have been successful from around Nov 10th (earliest I have tried) to the end of Nov with no time seeming to be better than the other. Most important factor is KNOWING it works and not just trying. There's almost nothing like setting down the horns and hearing what seems to be King Kong tearing down the woods to get to you. Ears laid back, hair standing straight up, and pissed off!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 05:54:52 PM
so that really means buying a rifle tag, even though i will be hunting them archery.  that stinks
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: RIVERRAT on July 22, 2012, 06:09:54 PM
My first time rattling a deer.  Archery from a treestand.  I would love to hear some techniques and tricks if you have them, cuz I am hooked!!!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 06:12:04 PM
 :drool:  gawwwlee
what was the date?  time of year?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 22, 2012, 06:32:14 PM
Awesome bucks 3 nails and obviously yours too Riverrat.


I find early better, but its really sporadic, when they are on they are ON!  Its really fun having multiple bucks come in.  Most of my whitetail shots are from rattled bucks.   I miss way more than I get on film.   
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on July 22, 2012, 06:37:57 PM
My first time rattling a deer.  Archery from a treestand.  I would love to hear some techniques and tricks if you have them, cuz I am hooked!!!

washington?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 06:52:34 PM
 That's daddy rabbit right there RIVERRAT! :chuckle: Doing it again this year? Once one comes to the horns ain't no goin back.  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 22, 2012, 09:34:11 PM
 Did you score that buck?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: KopperBuck on July 23, 2012, 10:53:58 AM
Rattled this guy in early in the late season last year.

(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi47.tinypic.com%2F2h7gmj6.jpg&hash=2ae80f4b0b35bca4203114374cbb43671ee5f0d5)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: shanevg on July 23, 2012, 04:04:23 PM
You ever had any luck rattling blacktails?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 23, 2012, 06:10:11 PM
Nice Kopper! Shane- Not yet. I've given it minimal effort since I already love the way I hunt them.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 23, 2012, 07:44:10 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv47%2Fboneaddict%2Fbucks2%2Fratwhit4.jpg&hash=7abd2fd4db9f8d940265064e48eea2dd203e50c3)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 23, 2012, 07:46:19 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv47%2Fboneaddict%2Fbucks2%2FIMG.jpg&hash=fc3e1a56204c789b6206a231abc2566cfab0489f)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: blacktail chaser on July 23, 2012, 09:37:26 PM
Have you ever tried the rattling bags or do you only use real antlers?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: KopperBuck on July 24, 2012, 09:55:08 AM
For what it's worth I used real horns this year. In years previous I've sat with my buddy and he used a bag and we never had anything come in. Doesn't mean they don't work, but it's hard to beat the real thing. Just a pain in the rear to pack around if you're still hunting on the way in.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 24, 2012, 02:58:51 PM
antlers only
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: DBHAWTHORNE on July 24, 2012, 03:23:21 PM
Great photo Bone!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: rasbo on July 24, 2012, 03:46:21 PM
I started using the rattle bag for blackies and it worked well,I dont mess up my hands anymore either.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 24, 2012, 08:59:35 PM
 I use a matched shed set from a 135 class buck. I'll post up some pics of my rattle gear this week(end?) From the time I step out of the truck I don't even want to see a deer. I sneak quickly from 2-5 rattle spots a day at least 1/2 mile apart. The first few years I didn't mind smaller bucks comming in but now I rattle so violently I rarely see anything but mature bucks come in. Occasionaly a younger one with a bad attitude will come in and that can be quite funny. I'll add more later when I'm not so tired.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 24, 2012, 09:09:57 PM
DB- Make some room in your inbox! :tung:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: DBHAWTHORNE on July 24, 2012, 09:22:43 PM
Done.  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: blacktail chaser on July 24, 2012, 10:00:15 PM
My daughter and I drew the late whitetail hunt for the Douglas unit and we figured we would try and do some rattling. Are there any good videos out there you might recommend? Any help would be greatly appreciated. :)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: UptheCreek on July 25, 2012, 06:39:53 AM
I had some success last year using the pack rack.  Easy to pack in and sound fairly realistic.  Rattling does work but it helps if you know where to start.  Look for signs of rutting bucks and good luck!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 25, 2012, 08:00:04 PM
Quote
Occasionaly a younger one with a bad attitude will come in and that can be quite funny


I smacked my antlers together at first light one crisp morning, and within about 10 seconds here comes this deer.  FULL SPEED, off the hill, to the abandone reprod filled logging road I was on using as a lane.   He literally locked up all fours and came within an inch of hitting me.   LOL   Not sure who was puckering more.  He was about 24 inch,5x5  but had short short tines.   I have rattled in that particular spot 5 or 6 times since then and haven't brought anything in.   

I chose the spot as its a runway bottleneck (ridgeline type trail that the bucks travel and then cross the road.   The logging road parallels it for a short distance.   I was "wasting" time waiting for light in order to photograph. Actually glad I didn't have my camera set up as he would have slid into it for sure.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 25, 2012, 09:17:29 PM
Quote
Occasionaly a younger one with a bad attitude will come in and that can be quite funny


I smacked my antlers together at first light one crisp morning, and within about 10 seconds here comes this deer.  FULL SPEED, off the hill, to the abandone reprod filled logging road I was on using as a lane.   He literally locked up all fours and came within an inch of hitting me.   LOL   Not sure who was puckering more.  He was about 24 inch,5x5  but had short short tines.   I have rattled in that particular spot 5 or 6 times since then and haven't brought anything in.   

I chose the spot as its a runway bottleneck (ridgeline type trail that the bucks travel and then cross the road.   The logging road parallels it for a short distance.   I was "wasting" time waiting for light in order to photograph. Actually glad I didn't have my camera set up as he would have slid into it for sure.
You crash the horns and you just never know what's going to happen! Kind of wish you did have the camera set up. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on July 25, 2012, 09:35:22 PM
You have those and then you have the ones that you stand up to leave or turn around and there is a giant rack standing there staring at you.....

Fun when moose do that too.  You think how in the hell did an animal that big come up to you without you knowing it, especially when it sounds like a D8 cat when they decide to leave.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 29, 2012, 03:37:35 PM
 So here's a quick rundown of my basic equipment and how I do it.
1. Real antlers. Heavy beamed, long tines, eyeguards cut down to 1" to give a thumb grip.
2. Grunt tube.
3. Buck roar/wheeze/grunter.
4. Estrus can.
5. Ezee wheeze.
6. Breeze squeeze.
7. Pad to kneel on when ground is hard/frozen.
8. Good low light binos.
9. Gun with bi-pod.

 The first step for me is to plan out my hunt the evening before. Every rattle location. (If I'm familiar with the area) I want to arrive at the first spot just when it's light enough to be able to judge a buck accurately. Ground shrinkage sucks! I also want to arrive without seeing any deer. Brushy areas are best and set up in a way that you aren't trying to draw them out of it. Rarely will a buck expose himself. I think too many hunters try to pull the buck into where they want them and not set up where the buck wants to go.
 Once I have arrived to the spot I'll take off my pack, unload my possibles and sit and listen for a few minutes. During this time I'll check the wind. Nice to have in your favor but if it's steady in one direction it's not that critical. Once I feel everything has settled down and I'm done cursing the squirrel that just won't shut up, I'll usually start off with a bleat or grunt. If nothing close by responds within a minute or two I'll snort wheeze and wait again. If still nothing, out come the horns. I don't crash them but mostly grind them. I'll grind so hard that they'll get hot and burn a little from the friction. I'll rattle for 1-3 minutes pausing every 15-20 seconds to listen for crashing brush from a buck. Too many times before I started pausing I had bucks charge in, see me, and leave before I could even set the antlers down. While rattling I'll stomp on some branches, whack the ground with the back beams of the antlers (simulating hoof stomps), kick a log or do anything else I can do to make alot of noise. Nothing sounds more unnatural in the woods than antlers crashing with no other noise involved.
 After I have finnished rattling I'll quickly get comfy with my rifle at the ready. Absolutely no movement now because you don't know if they are sneaking in or charging. They'll have your location surprisingly pegged even from a long ways off. No matter how tempting do not glass. Too much movement. Save the binos for judging an iffy buck that you won't mind scaring off if he sees you move. He's looking intently so be still!
 I'll give a spot at least 30 min., longer if I really like the area. If nothing shows it's off quickly/quietly to the next spot. I never "hunt" to the next location. I don't even want to see a deer. Only deer I want to see are the ones comming to the horns. I've passed up many good bucks going from spot to spot that I would have killed had I rattled them in. I don't want to just "get" a buck. I want to rattle them in. No other way.
 Rattling works and it works whenever you do it. I've rattled in deer the whole month of November. Calm, rain, snow, wind, it doesn't matter. A couple of years ago I rattled in a buck during a wind storm. Lodgepoles were crashing down all over the place. He was roughly a 145 class buck but it was early in the hunt and I wanted bigger. He had a bald spot behind his right shoulder and a unique rack. As soon as he got down wind of me he blew up. Never thought I'd see him again. Later on in the day and several miles away in a sheltered draw I rattled him in again! I decided to take him because of this but he busted me moving my gun. All that to say yes, you can rattle in the wind (just be louder) and you can rattle in the same buck twice.
 This is just MY style. If you'd like to kill a buck this way you have to be determined to succeed and don't give up. Also, some of my funnest hunts are in new areas where you don't know where you are going to rattle until you step into it. Look at the picture of where my son is set up. It is no more tha 10 yds wide and 40 yds long. That's the type of area I feel a buck is comfortable stepping into. Some real aggressive bucks will charge into a parking lot but they are rare. I'm sure I'm leaving a lot out so I'll add more info as I think of it. If you've been successful rattling bucks please add your knowledge as well.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: fishunt247 on July 29, 2012, 06:42:17 PM
That answered a lot of my questions. Thanks. Is the mousetrap for good luck or did I miss something?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jamesjett on July 29, 2012, 11:32:50 PM
Great post! Thanks for sharing! :tup: :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Maverick on July 30, 2012, 07:31:39 AM
Awesome info!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: TommyH on July 30, 2012, 07:40:37 AM
That answered a lot of my questions. Thanks. Is the mousetrap for good luck or did I miss something?

 :yeah: :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 30, 2012, 05:58:46 PM
 You don't know what the mouse traps for?  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: oldleclercrd on July 30, 2012, 10:49:44 PM
For mice.....
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Elkslayer on August 02, 2012, 11:26:54 AM
You're spot on with your technique 3nails, that is pretty much exactly how I rattle as well. Its really kind of funny when I take someone with me cause they think there is no way your gonna get something to come in making all that racket, kicking trees, breaking branches and such. Many have changed there minds though when they see those bucks come running in and skidding to a halt just feet away.

Here is a picture of one I took back in 1992, shot him at 10yrs in some very thick brush. he did'nt come running in but i could hear him tearing up the brush and grunting about 60yds out. Took him about another 10minutes or so to close the distance to where I could get a clean shot.
Scores 156 and some change!
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi6.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy204%2FElkslayer%2FIMGP0578.jpg&hash=dbb3530b2bc952e3a6ee88cb93efd4d0174ae8fb)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Bean Counter on August 02, 2012, 11:44:22 AM
3nails,

lets hear your mule deer rattling strategy.  :dunno:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on August 02, 2012, 07:08:29 PM
Way more patience, predator call works even better.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Bean Counter on August 02, 2012, 07:22:39 PM
I've noted a couple of times when coyote hunting that a soft fawn call has brought in mule bucks.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Birddogman on August 02, 2012, 08:27:40 PM
any luck rattling a Blacktail?  If said before in the thread I am sorry for asking again.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on August 02, 2012, 08:50:29 PM
Elkslayer- That's a dandy! I hope a few members are inspired to "do" it this year. Not just "try". The hardest part for me when I started was field judging in 1.5 seconds. :chuckle: Anyone can do this and once they do I doubt they'll want to kill a buck any other way. Kind of anti-climactic.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on August 02, 2012, 08:53:42 PM
3nails,

lets hear your mule deer rattling strategy.  :dunno:
I have no idea. Wish I had time to find a way.
any luck rattling a Blacktail?  If said before in the thread I am sorry for asking again.
I've tried very little. Maybe I'll try this year.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: blacktail chaser on August 02, 2012, 10:48:26 PM
Thanks for sharing all the good info!! My daughter and I really excited to try it out this November. Will post pics if successful.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on August 03, 2012, 03:44:41 AM
Thanks for sharing all the good info!! My daughter and I really excited to try it out this November. Will post pics if successful.
:tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: LittleJohn on August 03, 2012, 05:31:40 AM
Thanks for posting 3nails, great info
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: windygorge on August 03, 2012, 05:54:52 AM
what seasons do you successful hunters hunt when rattling is the best.  considering the season dates for each weapon?  archery season or rifle season?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: WildBear on August 03, 2012, 07:45:52 AM
Great info! Inspiring pictures too. Will be putting some of these tactics to use in Nov. Thanks!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jess on August 05, 2012, 11:54:51 PM
All november hunts you can rattle bucks in.. rifle late buck in northeast is a good hunt and so is the archery season in north central.. 
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on August 06, 2012, 08:43:01 PM
I've rattled a few small black tails in on the late rifle hunt, but had no luck a week later during archery, for what that's worth.   Has anyone successfully got a mulie this way?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jess on August 06, 2012, 08:51:06 PM
they have come in to the horns on accident... There is no muley rut season around here..
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on August 07, 2012, 07:21:31 AM
Quote
Has anyone successfully got a mulie this way?

I don't think I have killed any this way, but have rattled in and photographed plenty
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Bonedar208 on August 09, 2012, 12:48:43 AM
Im one of those guys thats "tried it" and after being unsuccesful deemed that it only works in texas on tv  :chuckle: Awesome to see someone whos had alot of succes with it.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: deerhunter_98520 on August 09, 2012, 02:44:29 PM
I rattle this blacktail in last season....i was sitting just over the edge of a landing overlooking a huge clearcut....it was 12pm and havent seen anything for a couple hrs so i got out my 3pt rack from the previous year and started rattling, stomping and beating brush...i did it for about 5min....after glassing for 10 min this guy was standing on the timber line....he didnt make it much farther...this was the end of oct.


(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi799.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy275%2Fdeerhunter_98520%2FIMAG0125.jpg&hash=0a3aeae56534abf48425dc7f13d2a3b50b31ff7f)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on August 09, 2012, 09:21:12 PM
I rattle this blacktail in last season....i was sitting just over the edge of a landing overlooking a huge clearcut....it was 12pm and havent seen anything for a couple hrs so i got out my 3pt rack from the previous year and started rattling, stomping and beating brush...i did it for about 5min....after glassing for 10 min this guy was standing on the timber line....he didnt make it much farther...this was the end of oct.


(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi799.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy275%2Fdeerhunter_98520%2FIMAG0125.jpg&hash=0a3aeae56534abf48425dc7f13d2a3b50b31ff7f)

Right on!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 02, 2012, 06:29:33 PM
 I just wanted to add that if you are planning on rattling in Idaho, where hunter orange is not required and you don't normally wear it there, you may want to reconsider. At least put out some orange on a branch next to you. Wolf season is open also so irresponsible hunters may be more apt to take shots at movement in the brush. :twocents:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: BIGMIKE on November 03, 2012, 02:12:58 PM
Congratulations :IBCOOL:, a trophy animal for sure. :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jess on November 03, 2012, 06:21:06 PM
pre rut is starting to rev up i saw a small buck chase a doe today for about twenty min two feet off her a** the whole time. It will be rattle time in a few more days
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 03, 2012, 06:29:38 PM
Puttin the horns in the bucket for a good soak in preparation for MT next week! :IBCOOL:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on November 03, 2012, 06:30:31 PM
Tried it quite a few times with no success.  It's too much fun to stop trying, though.  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: runningboard on November 03, 2012, 06:48:51 PM
[smg id=11765]
rattled this 1 in 2007, 120ish whitetail in a "as he lays" shot. posted story then, long ago.
by the way, used a "rattle bag"
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: SHADE on November 06, 2012, 11:01:27 AM
 :tup:

OK 3Nails, You got me headed home after work and putting the 4x4s in a bucket of water. Thanks for taking the time to explain this stuff. I will let you know how it all turns out when the deal is over. Its going to be arrows from the ground so far but if I can locate a good place it will be on a stand.
I have also used a small rope to a log to get some ground noise when rattling from the tree, but only small bucks and no second chances so far.

Good shooting and short blood trails...
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: coop2424 on November 11, 2012, 05:46:30 PM
Anyone have any luck?  I did a couple stands today and had a little 2 point come in on the last one this afternoon at around 3.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on November 11, 2012, 05:50:38 PM
I'm going to give it a try tomorrow.  "If it's a buck, it's out of luck!"  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: runningboard on November 11, 2012, 05:59:14 PM
called 1 in or out this morning in 113. he was in curiosity mode, why I said "or out" he was in thick stuff & came out to have a look, not looking for a fight. smaller but still a shooter, my shooter wasn't ready  :tung:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: RIVERRAT on November 12, 2012, 05:29:48 PM
Rattled this one in last year..... came in about a minute after rattling.  This was my first try and it worked out just fine!!   I plan on trying again this year.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: scoyoc5 on November 12, 2012, 05:32:49 PM
Damn river rat that's a stud congrats
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 12, 2012, 05:42:24 PM
0 for 5 today rattling in Montana. Can't wait until morning!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Jonathan_S on November 12, 2012, 05:56:46 PM
Rattled this one in last year..... came in about a minute after rattling.  This was my first try and it worked out just fine!!   I plan on trying again this year.
:yike: :yike: beast!!!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 13, 2012, 06:49:26 PM
1 for 2 today. My daughter killed her biggest deer tonight that we rattled in. A 4 x4. She is pretty stoked!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: RIVERRAT on November 13, 2012, 06:54:39 PM
YES!!!!!   That is so cool!   Congrats :IBCOOL:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 15, 2012, 12:39:36 PM
1 for 2 this morning. Passed on a 130 ish 4x4.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: coop2424 on November 15, 2012, 12:46:48 PM
1 for 2 this morning. Passed on a 130 ish 4x4.

Very cool in Wa or ID? My bad I see it was MT.  I have just had luck with little guys here in ID.  I know there is at least 3 larger bucks I have had on trailcam but no luck with them..
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Hornseeker on November 15, 2012, 01:45:24 PM
This is just the thread i was looking for!

My buddy went out yesterday and saw a buck at about 500 yards... rattled, for his first time ever, and the buck snorts and runs 300 yards straight at him... then he noticed THREE more bucks coming in from different directions, then the 1st, a 90 inch buck, stood broadside and he killed it.

I am going up there tomorrow or Sat morn for sure and will be a little more patient...as I have no desire to kill a 90 inch buck. Would really like to get into a 130+ buck...

What part of Montana 3 Nails? Western I assume? I am clean over in Billings.

Pics to come hopefully! If it works, I'll get my daughter up there Sunday!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 15, 2012, 05:52:58 PM
This is just the thread i was looking for!

My buddy went out yesterday and saw a buck at about 500 yards... rattled, for his first time ever, and the buck snorts and runs 300 yards straight at him... then he noticed THREE more bucks coming in from different directions, then the 1st, a 90 inch buck, stood broadside and he killed it.

I am going up there tomorrow or Sat morn for sure and will be a little more patient...as I have no desire to kill a 90 inch buck. Would really like to get into a 130+ buck...

What part of Montana 3 Nails? Western I assume? I am clean over in Billings.

Pics to come hopefully! If it works, I'll get my daughter up there Sunday!
Northwest. Heavy timber!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: WVT on November 15, 2012, 06:11:24 PM
Anywhere near Noxon, the toughest hunting country. Should train the military there...I have tried rattling a touch the past few years but never really gave it a legitimate chance. Always felt I was alerting every deer in the area I was there.

Good luck man, really enjoyed this thread.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: grundy53 on November 15, 2012, 06:48:06 PM
My Grandma lives in Thompson falls. There are definitely some dandy bucks in NW Montana.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Hornseeker on November 17, 2012, 08:15:12 AM
Couldn't go today... kids and sports!

But, I did go yesterday... and.... it kicked ass!

I had to traverse a nasty patch of thick lodgepole to get into some aspen/willow thicket stuff I knew the whitetail would like. It was about 45 minutes in the dark, and just as it started to get light enough to see around me I noticed I was in an area of sparser timber and there was a fresh scrape at my feet. I moved to a spot I had a decent view from, got all set up, then gave two grunts... waited a few minutes and gave a doe bleat, using "the can"...which honestly I know NOTHING about...

I waited about 5 minutes, picked up the horns and started making a serious racket... about 30 seconds in and I see a flash of movement 90 yards down in the timber. I tossed the horns and got on the scope and it was a 120 4 point... maybe a hair smaller. Nice looking buck, but I had high hopes for the day. Anyhow, he ended up going out of site so I touched the horns together a bit and he came dashing back in to 47 yards! He never saw me..and slowly walked off.

Well, that was cool as hell. That was it though. I ended up jumping a bigger buck and taking a foolish running/brush shot at him. There was snow on the ground and I tracked him for a long time to ensure I didn't draw blood. I tried rattling about 3 other times for about 1/2 hour each and didn't get any reaction...

Fun stuff though...maybe tomorrow.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 17, 2012, 06:12:11 PM
Keep at it HS. I'm o for my last ten or so setups but will be right back at it tomorrow. All in the Lords timing.
Title: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Bearhunter on November 17, 2012, 06:21:04 PM
Let's see your daughters buck Jeff!  I'm having withdrawals already and havent even made it to the happiest place on earth yet....
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 17, 2012, 06:26:43 PM
Let's see your daughters buck Jeff!  I'm having withdrawals already and havent even made it to the happiest place on earth yet....
I'll text you a pic. Hard to post pics from the cabin using an iPad. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: ShaneTyTrey on November 17, 2012, 06:41:15 PM
Just an awesome thread!!!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Arteman on November 17, 2012, 08:58:51 PM
Great looking Bucks Jeff, man you've had some great success over the years!  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: deaner on November 17, 2012, 09:08:48 PM
well this thread has me thinking about going out with my camera and rattling in deer tomorrow just for fun and to get pics.  only thing stopping me is that i always carry a sidearm in the woods due to all the cougar around here, and im afraid that a game warden might decide i was rattling deer to poach them. 
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Hornseeker on November 19, 2012, 02:15:31 PM
Whats the word 3Nails??

I did not hunt whitetail the rest of the weekend...but may try again Friday....
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 19, 2012, 02:58:44 PM
Shot a mediocre 4x4 with my kids yesterday. Was an awesome day but it's killing me burning brush at the cabin right now with bigger bucks chasing does all around us. It's actually making my wife nervous. :chuckle: The bucks are going ballistic right now!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: SHADE on December 20, 2012, 06:33:46 PM
The horns dried up a bit before I got to use em. layed them in a stream to soak up more water and they were frozen in it in the morning. No deer came in to let me shoot them. Did learn that the little short alarm the whitetail does give out as alarm is now my least fav sound in the world though...
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on December 20, 2012, 08:31:06 PM
My least fav sound comes from the squirrels designated to rat me out at almost every rattle site.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: TommyH on December 21, 2012, 12:26:48 PM
My least fav sound comes from the squirrels designated to rat me out at almost every rattle site.


 :chuckle: :yeah: Every time I touched the horns togather! Tried it a few times but didnt have any luck.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jess on December 21, 2012, 04:25:11 PM
You ever seen a real buck fight? squirels go nuts!  I think it helps!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Heredoggydoggy on December 21, 2012, 07:25:18 PM
When I was on my deer stand, a squirrel ran up to 6' away and sat looking at me.  I muttered quietly: "You start chattering at me, and I'll shoot you!"  he turned and went about his business and never made a sound...  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3fingersunder on December 23, 2012, 08:56:38 PM


3nails
Great topic! Rattlin is something I'm passionate about!

There is nothing like it! When you have one of those big boys coming in with his head low, ears back , hair on his back standing strait up, kicking dirt on a flat out  charge! You've experienced won of those awe inspiring moments in the wild that keeps us going back! I had one buck come in so fast I barely had time to get the gun up! missed him when he came barreling past me at about 4' close enough to see the raw aggression in his eye! He was looking for a battle! shook me up so bad I had to sit and recover from shock!

I completely agree with your technique. They won't come in aggressive if your not in the brush. Even then most times they sneak in and when you get up to leave you hear them thump off. Ive always still hunted between rattling stations but I like your idea of going directly to your rattling station and trying not to see a deer on the way there. Have you developed any techniques for those circling bucks ? I can hear the buck circling me to get down wind but if I move he sees the movement and leaves in a hurry! Any advice would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on December 23, 2012, 09:41:50 PM
 I try and use terrain to keep that from happening. The vast majority of places I rattle are in steep country where they are not going to give up real estate to get down wind. I also don't want the buck who is concerned about it. It's the one comming in with his ears laid back and hair standing that I want. In the brush, try and set up to where if they try and circle they'll expose themselves. The circling buck is concerned about a butt kicking where as the dominant buck wants to get straight to the fight.
 A few years ago in Idaho I got busted twice with antlers in my hands. The first time one charged in and out before I could do anything. The next time I just looked to my right and there was a bick buck staring me down at thirty yds. I dropped the antlers, grabbed my gun and missed him. That was the year I learned to pause for 3-4 seconds for every 20+- seconds of rattling to listen. It's hard to hear over the rattling. I almost always hear them comming now before I see them. There's nothing like the "King Kong" buck who comes in knocking down trees, running into dead falls, straight through brush, etc.  Can't wait for next year!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on December 23, 2012, 09:43:42 PM
3fingers, if you have pics of bucks you've rattled in post them!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: MuleyJam on December 23, 2012, 11:01:59 PM
I would sure love to hear some if your techniques.  :yike: :yike: Send me a p.m.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3fingersunder on December 27, 2012, 11:40:23 PM
3nails
I tried to send to send you a private message but for some reason it doesn't want to go through.
I can't post any pics of any bucks I've killed rattling because I haven't killed any rattling. I've had two shots at big bucks that have come in and Ive missed them both!!
I've passed on other small bucks.  I killed a good buck in washington last season and a good buck in Idaho last season. The wa. Buck I killed snow tracking ( another tactic i love)and the Id. Buck I ambushed. The Idaho buck looks like a twin to the buck that you have on the wall. It has the same split brow tine on the left and wide brow tine on the right. Send me a PM and I'll try to send you some pics i will get someone to help me figure out how to send them
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on May 31, 2013, 09:52:34 AM
 I am thinking about doing a rattling class/seminar later this summer. If anyone would be interested let me know so I can figure out how big of an area we'll need. I'll probably do it even if only 5 hunters are interested. There's just too much to it to share online.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: shanevg on May 31, 2013, 10:31:57 AM
I'd definitely be interested!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: lucky33 on May 31, 2013, 10:42:42 AM
Where is this class happening at....?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: TommyH on May 31, 2013, 10:46:12 AM
I am thinking about doing a rattling class/seminar later this summer. If anyone would be interested let me know so I can figure out how big of an area we'll need. I'll probably do it even if only 5 hunters are interested. There's just too much to it to share online.


Would love to learn something new! Im in!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: LittleJohn on May 31, 2013, 10:51:19 AM
I would be in for sure!! :)
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on May 31, 2013, 09:00:24 PM
I should probably start a new thread for this idea.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: coyotecrazy on May 31, 2013, 09:03:48 PM
Sold,, I'm in
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Alan K on May 31, 2013, 09:10:58 PM
I am thinking about doing a rattling class/seminar later this summer. If anyone would be interested let me know so I can figure out how big of an area we'll need. I'll probably do it even if only 5 hunters are interested. There's just too much to it to share online.

When and where, my dad and I will surely attend if you'd have us!  We've been hunting Idaho whitetails since I attended UI, but just last year attempted rattling for the first time. Not really knowing what I was doing, I got into my stand (not new to this), and waited for an hour to let things chill out a bit.  Rattled for about a 30 second off and on sequence, and had a spike creep in about 3-4 minutes later. I (somewhat embarrassed to admit) let the air out of him.  Partially because he was the first deer I've rattled in, but also because the snow had melted, we had one day left to hunt, and I was going to take home some delicious WT meat for the second $300 tag in my pocket!

It was AWESOME, and I hope to soak up all the information I can on it!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: splitshot on May 31, 2013, 09:19:57 PM
  where are you located?   sounds like a good time.  mike w
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: grundy53 on June 04, 2013, 01:41:06 PM
I wou
I am thinking about doing a rattling class/seminar later this summer. If anyone would be interested let me know so I can figure out how big of an area we'll need. I'll probably do it even if only 5 hunters are interested. There's just too much to it to share online.

l'd be interested. I hunt whitetails in Idaho and would love to learn how to rattle them in.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: gfull on June 04, 2013, 10:29:53 PM
Count me in, and my hunting buddy.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: johnsc6 on June 06, 2013, 12:05:37 PM
2 in.....
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: oldleclercrd on September 12, 2013, 10:51:29 PM
I couldn't help but give this thread a bump. Too much good info and pics.  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: hillbillyhunting on September 13, 2013, 11:38:52 AM
Any more on the class?  I didnt read through the entire thread so sorry if you are repeating, but do you rattle blacktails 3nails?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Kc_Kracker on September 14, 2013, 10:35:19 AM
any killed in washington??  very nice
My Washington tag is dedicated to my true hunting love, blacktails!
how efficient is rattling in BT? do you use real horns or those little bags of plastic sticks?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on September 14, 2013, 12:04:58 PM
Any more on the class?  I didnt read through the entire thread so sorry if you are repeating, but do you rattle blacktails 3nails?
Still trying to put something together. I haven't put much effort into blacktails. I have a method for hunting them that works so I'm afraid to mess with it.  :chuckle:
 Kc- I use shed antlers. Those bags and the plastic antlers are garbage imo.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: irishevox on September 18, 2013, 06:47:39 AM
great info.... anything on black tail rattling?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: hillbillyhunting on September 22, 2013, 08:57:21 AM
Any more on the class?  I didnt read through the entire thread so sorry if you are repeating, but do you rattle blacktails 3nails?
Still trying to put something together. I haven't put much effort into blacktails. I have a method for hunting them that works so I'm afraid to mess with it.  :chuckle:
 Kc- I use shed antlers. Those bags and the plastic antlers are garbage imo.

Thanks  :tup:  Keep me posted on the class  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: TommyH on November 06, 2013, 08:09:59 AM
 :bumpin: :bumpin: Any luck this year?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: jackelope on November 06, 2013, 11:23:16 AM
:bumpin: :bumpin: Any luck this year?

Probably not yet...
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: hornlvr on November 08, 2013, 04:38:51 PM
It sounds like you love blacktails as much as I do.  In Calif. where I used to hunt, there were no rut hunts, so I would camera hunt during the rut.  I have rattled in many blacktails, and have hours of old film of them.  I have yet to kill a whitetail, but only hunt with the bow.  I am going out tomorrow hopeful that I can rattle one in.  To me this is like turkey hunting, I enjoy the calling in the spring more than the killing, even with my bow. This to me is the fun of the hunt.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: irishevox on November 08, 2013, 10:27:15 PM
maybe we should start a thred on BT rattling..... this on is for whitetails...  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: PA BEN on November 09, 2013, 08:07:02 AM
Rattled in a spike buck this morning.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: wsubeagle on November 10, 2013, 06:37:14 PM
How early in the season do you usually start to rattle?
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 10, 2013, 07:33:27 PM
 The minute I get to where I'm hunting!  :chuckle: If I had to pick the best dates from my experience it would be from the 16th through the end of the month. Never hunted in December but I'd bet it would be good through the first week at least. No such thing as a time when it doesn't work during lockdown. Hogwash!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: ktucker on November 14, 2013, 12:07:35 PM
I wish you would put on a clinic. I was just up in unit 111 and tried for 4 days to rattle in a buck with no results. I was rattling with fake antlers and pack rack.
It was my first try, so I was experimenting and tryin everything I could dream up.
ktucker
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Ridgerunner on November 14, 2013, 12:16:31 PM
I'd love a clinic, we need to try and get one next winter or spring.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: vandeman17 on November 14, 2013, 12:24:58 PM
I have found that the best way to rattle up whitetails is with the clicking sound of all my backpack straps followed shortly after by a zipper sound. Never fails that when I stop to take care of business, I end up seeing a deer.  :chuckle:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 14, 2013, 06:43:20 PM
 Really hoping to put something together this winter/spring.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: bullcanyon on November 15, 2013, 08:50:59 PM
We rattled a decent buck in last night in Idaho.  Grunted in a 155 Sunday.  Things are happening boys! Yes the grunted buck is dead.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: KFhunter on November 15, 2013, 09:21:22 PM
You ever rattle in a Doe with a buck on her tail?

Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: bullcanyon on November 18, 2013, 07:23:37 AM
We made a goal to rattle in bucks last week while we were in Idaho and only managed one buck to come in.  Spent the first few days really hammering the horns, but nothing came.  Tried some light sparring and 2 minutes into a 3x3 with eyeguards came in.  My cuz got excited so we brought that buck home.  I'm guessing we were doing something wrong, but can't figure out what.  Bucks were in the area, we were very patient, and had really good set ups.  Had a real nice set of horns as well.  Gonna be my new mission to rattle more deer in just to figure this thing out.  Definitely more fun than just sitting there. 

Thanks for all the tips 3nails.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: kglacken on November 27, 2013, 08:36:29 PM
Rattled in a spike on my first set up ever today in Idaho. it was fun to just have him come in. Also had a spike bull come in too. anyone ever had that happen?  :dunno:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: boneaddict on November 28, 2013, 07:27:19 AM
You ever rattle in a Doe with a buck on her tail?

I've had doe come right up to me and by me I think in the hopes I'd shoot the buck off her ass that was running her to death.  Ive had it a couple times when I was discovered out there, shed make a bee-line for me with him in hot pursuit. 
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on November 28, 2013, 09:58:51 AM
Rattled in a spike on my first set up ever today in Idaho. it was fun to just have him come in. Also had a spike bull come in too. anyone ever had that happen?  :dunno:
Not me but I'm always wondering if it'll happen. Rattled in and killed a coyote this year. Can't wait to rattle in a wolf or lion in Mont. or Id.  :mgun:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on July 27, 2014, 08:50:21 PM
 I'm going to do a modest rattling seminar/class thingy at the end of September (probably Saturday the 27th) in Bellingham if anyone is interested. I'll bring all my gear, some heads, horns, and anything else I can think of that pertains. If you'd like to come just post here so we can get an attendance estimate. Rattle on!  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: grundy53 on July 27, 2014, 09:16:00 PM
I would love that. Unfortunately my good buddy is getting married that day.

sent from my typewriter

Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: stew pidasso on July 28, 2014, 07:33:11 PM
I need some schooling but I'm not close enough. Bummer
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: devldogs55 on July 29, 2014, 03:00:30 PM
I can't say I'll be there for sure - but I'm gonna talk to the wife about it! I could sure use some of your info!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: MarkyMark on July 29, 2014, 07:19:09 PM
Sounds like fun. Love to attend but that is opening day of deer muzzleloader for me.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: irishevox on July 30, 2014, 10:12:20 AM
details on this class
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: kglacken on August 06, 2014, 09:08:00 PM
I would like to attend! We will see what is going on that weekend  :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: ladder85 on September 01, 2014, 01:42:41 PM
I would like to attend this class X 2 people
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: 3nails on August 05, 2017, 03:12:35 PM
 I posted a video from the class we did in a new thread.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: daddyelk on August 05, 2017, 04:25:45 PM
I shot my late muzzy whitetail by rattling him in. It was the best experience of my life. I had no idea what I was doing I just watched a bunch of youtube videos and went for it. He came in on a string.
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: TheHunt on August 05, 2017, 07:01:36 PM
I posted a video from the class we did in a new thread.

I will look for it.  I did rattle a 2X2 blacktail two years ago and killed it.  20 feet..  Snuck right up on me.  I never knew he was there until I looked look over the log and saw his little antlers.  It works on blacktails just don't let them sneak up on you. 
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Okanagan on August 05, 2017, 07:45:36 PM
I posted a video from the class we did in a new thread.

I will look for it.  I did rattle a 2X2 blacktail two years ago and killed it.  20 feet..  Snuck right up on me.  I never knew he was there until I looked look over the log and saw his little antlers.  It works on blacktails just don't let them sneak up on you.

Some barge in and some sneak in downwind, whether whitetail, mule deer or blacktail coming to a call sound.   Be grateful for the bold ones that barge in but set up for the sneakers.    :)

Three Nails is good at rattling and good at showing how he does it.


Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: alexramsey on August 12, 2017, 07:23:33 PM
Awesome bucks. congrats bud!
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Falcon on August 13, 2017, 09:45:08 AM
Great video by 3 nails.   Better than reading a book about rattling :tup:
Title: Re: Rattling whitetails
Post by: Seahawk12 on August 14, 2017, 11:11:22 AM
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