In the heart of Illinois, where some of the most coveted whitetail deer roam, hunters are always on the lookout for that elusive giant buck. Season 6 of Chasing November delivered just that, as one lucky hunter experienced an unforgettable encounter that had viewers on the edge of their seats. The episode, titled “Calling In An Illinois Stud,” captures the thrill of hunting during the peak of the rut and showcases why Illinois is one of the top destinations for big bucks.
The hunt began on a crisp November morning, as the hunter set out on a mission to call in a mature buck. The excitement was palpable as he prepared to use one of the most effective tools for the job—rattling. The rut was in full swing, and bucks were actively seeking does. With the right strategy, the hunter knew he could turn the tables and attract a dominant buck to the area.
Using a combination of grunt calls and rattling horns, the hunter began to mimic the sounds of two bucks sparring. This tactic is often a surefire way to draw in an aggressive buck looking to defend its territory or challenge another for dominance. The wind was in his favor, and the setup was ideal, with thick cover nearby and open fields where a buck might appear.
As the minutes ticked by, nothing seemed to stir. But just as the hunter was about to give up, a massive Illinois stud appeared on the horizon. The giant buck was moving with purpose, drawn to the sound of the rattling. The hunter’s heart raced as the buck closed the distance, fully aware of the situation. The tension was thick—this could be the moment.
The stud finally entered shooting range, giving the hunter a clear shot. With a steady hand and an unwavering focus, he released the arrow, landing a perfect shot behind the buck’s shoulder. The deer bolted into the timber, but the hunter knew he had made a solid hit.
After a short recovery, the hunter found his prize—an incredible Illinois buck that would make any hunter’s dream list. This hunt was a prime example of how effective calling and rattling can be, especially when combined with knowledge of deer behavior during the rut. Lightning had struck twice for this hunter, proving once again that patience, preparation, and the right tactics can lead to success in the world of whitetail hunting.
Chasing November Season 6 continues to inspire hunters with unforgettable moments and the relentless pursuit of the biggest bucks the Midwest has to offer.
