Here in Iowa, it's peak rut right now. I have noticed the buts don't really care about territory. For example, rubs tell other bucks, hey your in my territory, and you better get out. But now, in peak rut, it seems they don't really care if another buck is in there territory. 2 reasons, there chasing doe's, and there all over chasing doe's. Could be a few hundred yards away from there core area, or a few miles! So they don't have time to worry about other bucks.
But if it was pre rut, or rut early rut, I would say rubs are the way to go!
And a creek bed is a good spot too. 1, it provides water if there is any, and 2nd, a natural funnle for deer!
Good hunting
Jason V
