As summer gives way to autumn many elements within the environment change. Shorter days and cooler temperatures trigger a myriad of changes in just about every living thing in our forests and wood lots. The whitetail is no exception, and probably at no other time are they more susceptible to calling than during this "autumn" period.

For me, when the seasons change is always been the most productive time to interact with the whitetail on a vocal basis. By mixing soft cohesive grunts with intermittent sparring and rattling, I've lured many nice deer within bow range. This year my technique will include a new challenge, The Grunt Snort and Wheeze.

When two equally dominant bucks encounter one another in the fall a very short but distinct warning is often given. This "pfff, pfff, pheeesss" sound is known as the snort wheeze. I used M.A.D.'s MD-509 Grunt Snort & Wheez extensively last year with incredible results. It became apparent to me that I was issuing a challenge to passing bucks. Many times after blowing the call I witnessed mature 4- and 5-year-old bucks leave a hot doe to investigate the sound. It pushes a hot button when a possible threat enters the scene and starts challenging a dominant buck by snort wheezing. I believe it plays upon their ego some what.

If you think about it, there aren't many extremely dominant people who won't respond in some way to a challenge. Often their response will be quick and semi-aggressive. If you don't believe me try giving your boss orders. I guarantee you they will give you some response. This is the same thing we are doing with dominant bucks. By issuing a distinct challenge, or telling them there is a new boss in town you may just get a quick, semi-aggressive response in return. Hopefully it will be one that ends with you having the last word.