Quick Answer
To effectively hunt deer in Alberta, it's essential to practice good scent control to avoid spooking your quarry. This includes washing clothes and gear in unscented detergent, using scent-free soaps and lotions, and avoiding strong perfumes or colognes. By controlling human scent, you can improve your chances of a successful hunt.
Pre-Hunt Preparation
When preparing for a deer hunt in Alberta, start by washing all clothing and gear in unscented detergent at least 24 hours before the hunt. This allows time for the detergent to fully break down and eliminate any lingering human scent. Additionally, use a scent-killing laundry detergent specifically designed for hunting gear to ensure maximum effectiveness. Consider hand-washing gear like tree stands and blinds with a scent-free soap to prevent human scent from accumulating.
In-Field Scent Control
While in the field, avoid using strong perfumes, colognes, or body sprays, as these can leave a lasting scent that may alert deer to your presence. Instead, opt for scent-free personal care products, such as toothpaste and deodorant. When approaching a stand or blind, take a moment to brush off any loose clothing or gear that may be carrying human scent. This can be done with a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to minimize the risk of making noise.
Scent Control for Gear and Equipment
In addition to washing clothes and gear, it’s essential to scent-control equipment like tree stands and blinds. Use a scent-killing spray or wipe on these items before the hunt, and consider using a scent-absorbing product like activated charcoal to neutralize any lingering human scent. When returning to a stand or blind after a break, take a moment to reapply the scent-killing spray or wipe to ensure maximum effectiveness. By following these best practices for scent control, hunters can significantly improve their chances of a successful deer hunt in Alberta.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.