Deer Hunting Tips for the Rut, Phase by Phase
Deer hunting tips for every phase of the rut, counted from the peak breeding date where you hunt. State agency and university data on when bucks move, where they go and what works in each phase.
Field-to-table reference desk
From tag to table — official season dates for all 50 states, plus safe doneness temps for your harvest.
Hunting seasons
| Species | Archery | Firearm |
|---|---|---|
| Deer | Sep–Oct | Nov |
| Elk | Sep | Oct–Nov |
| Turkey | — | Apr–May |
All 50 state wildlife agencies, plus how seasons, tags and licenses work.
Find your state → NetworkWild game doneness
| Doneness | Target |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125–130°F |
| Medium-rare | 130–135°F |
| Well-done | 160°F+ |
Safe pull temps for venison and steak, from Popular BBQ.
View full chart →Reader Favorites
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