Fallow Buck Rut Australia: Timing, Tactics & Calling Tips

Fallow Deer Hunting Rut

The fallow buck rut in Australia is one of the most exciting periods on the deer hunting calendar. Generally building through March, peaking in April, and tapering into early May, each phase of the rut offers different opportunities for hunters who understand what to look for and when to act.

Pre-Rut (Early–Mid March)

During the pre-rut, fallow bucks begin shifting from feeding patterns into territorial behaviour. This is when rut trees appear, with saplings and low branches thrashed by antlers, and the first scrapes start forming. Bucks are testing dominance but remain cautious.

This is the time for light rattling and soft buck groans, particularly along travel corridors, near feed, and on the edges of emerging territories. Calling should be subtle — just enough to suggest another buck moving in.

Peak Rut (April)

The peak rut is when fallow deer hunting in Australia really ignites. Bucks are vocal, aggressive, and far less cautious. Fighting becomes common, scrapes are actively maintained, and dominant bucks will regularly return to defend their ground.

Rattling works extremely well around active scrapes and rut trees, often pulling bucks in quickly and on a string. Cold weather plays a big role — the cooler the conditions, the harder the rut seems to fire. Movement can occur at any time of day, not just dawn and dusk.

This is the period I personally favour. Peak rut offers the best chance at a mature buck, with intensity and opportunity at their highest.

Post-Rut (Late April–Early May)

Middle Of The Fallow Rut Action

As the rut winds down, bucks are tired, run-down, and feeding more frequently — but they’re not finished yet. Doe calls become very effective during this phase, especially when bucks are searching for late or missed does.

Scrapes and rut trees are still worth hunting, particularly during cold mornings and calm afternoons.

Rut Calling & Setup Tips

Best Calling Methods

• Antler rattling around active scrapes

• Deep buck groans during peak rut

• Doe calls during late and post-rut

• Cold, still weather for best response

Common Mistakes

• Overcalling outside peak rut

• Rattling too aggressively too early

• Ignoring wind direction

• Rushing set-ups near rut trees

Understanding the timing, behaviour, and calling tactics of the fallow buck rut in Australia is the key to consistent success.

Fallow Deer Hunt Northern NSW

Whether you hunt pre-rut, peak rut, or post-rut, reading the sign and matching your approach to the phase of the rut will put you in the game.