Quick Answer
Effective attractants for kill plots include food sources like oats, alfalfa, and soybeans, as well as mineral licks and water sources. Hunters often focus on areas with high deer activity and visibility. A well-designed kill plot requires careful consideration of attractant placement and surrounding habitat.
Attractant Placement
Effective attractant placement is key to a successful kill plot. Typically, a 1/4 to 1/2 acre staging area is sufficient for a kill plot, with the main attractant (like a mineral lick or food source) placed in the center. From there, trail systems can be created to funnel deer into the kill zone. For example, a 50-foot wide trail leading to the kill plot can help deer move quietly and unseen.
Habitat Considerations
A well-designed kill plot requires surrounding habitat that complements the attractant. This includes screening cover like clover or winter rye, which helps deer feel secure while feeding. Additionally, incorporating a water source or mineral lick within 100-200 yards of the kill plot can increase deer activity and visibility. For example, a 2-foot deep water hole can attract deer from a wide area, making them more likely to pass through the kill plot.
Trail System Design
The trail system leading to the kill plot should be designed to funnel deer into a small, killable area. Typically, this involves creating a narrow trail that leads to a 50-75 yard wide kill zone. The trail should be about 10-15 feet wide, allowing deer to move quietly and unseen. By creating a well-designed trail system and surrounding habitat, hunters can increase their chances of success in a kill plot.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.