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When Is the Rut in South Ohio?

Ohio rut phase dates for the 2026 season. South Ohio is one of 2 distinct rut zones in Ohio — timing here runs on its own schedule.

Short answer: peak rut in South Ohio typically runs Nov 11 to Nov 20.
Compared with the rest of Ohio: peak rut in South Ohio runs about 5 days earlier than North Ohio.

South Ohio Rut Phases

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
South Ohio Oct 22 – Nov 3 Nov 3 – Nov 11 Nov 11 – Nov 20 Nov 20 – Nov 30

Every Rut Zone in Ohio

Hunting a different part of the state? Peak dates shift.

Region Pre-Rut Seeking Peak Rut Post-Rut
South Ohio ← you are here Oct 22 – Nov 3 Nov 3 – Nov 11 Nov 11 – Nov 20 Nov 20 – Nov 30
North Ohio Oct 28 – Nov 8 Nov 8 – Nov 16 Nov 16 – Nov 24 Nov 24 – Dec 3
How to use these dates. Rut timing is driven mainly by photoperiod, so these windows hold up well year to year. What moves is visible daylight activity — cold fronts, wind, and hunting pressure shift when deer move inside the window. Use the dates to pick your week, then the daily forecast to pick your morning. Always verify seasons with your state agency.
Check today's hunting conditions → All Ohio rut dates

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