Quick Answer
To maintain active scrapes, hunt during peak rut periods, typically in the early morning and late evening, when deer are most active, and use scent lure or scat to attract them to your setup.
Choosing the Right Location
When selecting a location for your active scrape, consider areas with high deer traffic, such as trail intersections, near food sources, and along water edges. Aim for spots with a good mix of sunlight and cover, like a north-facing slope with a thicket or a cluster of trees. Use your knowledge of the land and deer behavior to pinpoint the most likely spots, keeping in mind that deer tend to favor areas with dense cover during the peak rut.
Creating an Effective Scrape
To create an effective active scrape, use a combination of scent lure and scat to attract deer to your setup. Apply a strong scent lure to the scrape, such as a doe-in-heat scent or a buck’s tarsal gland scent, and place a piece of deer scat near the scrape. This will help draw deer to the area, and the scent will linger, making the scrape more attractive to other deer. Use a small amount of scent, about 2-3 drops, and apply it to the scrape in the late afternoon or early evening, just before the peak rut period.
Managing Your Setup
To maximize the effectiveness of your active scrape, manage your setup carefully. Move quietly and avoid disturbing the area, as this can scare deer away. Use a ladder stand or a blind to get a clear shot without being seen, and be prepared to move quickly if a deer approaches. Also, keep a spare setup, including a new scent lure and scat, in case you need to replace it during the peak rut period. This will help maintain the attractiveness of the scrape and keep deer coming back.
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