Keep in mind this week coming up is the most productive week for killing giant whitetail, the reason is most bucks are on their feet looking for other bucks. Generally this week has nothing to do with the rut, its all about bucks showing dominates to other bucks, most of the sign you will find is put down during this week as well. Hunt close to his bedding if you can and hunt the sign now, don't wait till next week when traditionally most bow hunters hit the woods hard, rattling works great this time of year too! Hunting does this time of year will have small to medium bucks close by too, so if thats what your looking for you should be able to get the job done, on the other hand if your desires are to shoot the most dominate buck in your area put these tactics to work and reap the benefits!
Hunting the rut is great but the big boys are all ready locked down with does and you rarely see him, what you see most of all are the 3 year old's. Hunt the big guys before and after the rut!