For the last 5 years I have hunted in Oklahoma and/or Kansas (when I drew a tag) in early December. On all those hunts I witnessed good buck movement and some of the best rutting activity of the year. I’ve shot 5 mature bucks over that span, including this stunning 160-class giant in southeast Kansas last December 3. The early post-rut has become my most productive time, and I urge you not to miss these 3 days this season. Best conditions: This December 3-5 two things will work in your favor. While Sunday could be tricky, there will be noticeably less hunting pressure in your woods on Monday and Tuesday. On December 4, the moon will be waxing to last-quarter, [...]

The calendar just flipped to December, and a buck tag is still burning a hole in your pocket. Most of your buddies have killed their deer, and you’re starting to worry. Maybe even panic. What am I doing wrong? Did I miss the rut? Will I get my buck? Take a deep breath and look at your predicament as an opportunity. You still get to roam the woods for a few more days, and the buck hunting is a lot better than you might think. Try these tips to score at the buzzer. Hunt Hard in the Early Post-Rut  I hunt in several states in early December, from Kansas to Oklahoma to Virginia. All over I am witnessing good to [...]