What food sources attract trophy whitetails in fescue?

Understanding Deer Behavior in Fescue

Whitetails in fescue country prefer food sources that are easy to access and offer a high concentration of nutrients. A food plot matrix is an effective way to create a reliable food source for these deer. This matrix involves planting a combination of soybeans, corn, and wheat in a specific pattern, taking into account the deer’s natural movement patterns and the growth habits of the crops.

Creating a Food Plot Matrix

When creating a food plot matrix in fescue, it’s essential to plant the crops in a pattern that mimics the deer’s natural movement routes. A general rule of thumb is to plant 10-20% of the plot with soybeans, 30-40% with corn, and 40-50% with wheat. This ratio allows the deer to easily access the food source while also providing a good balance of nutrients. The matrix should be planted in a way that creates a series of “alleys” or “corridors” that the deer can follow to reach the food. This can be achieved by planting the crops in a grid pattern, with the alleys running east-west and the food sources located at the intersections.

Managing the Food Plot

To keep the food plot attractive to trophy whitetails, it’s essential to manage the crops properly. This includes controlling weeds and maintaining a consistent moisture level. A good rule of thumb is to plant the crops to a depth of 1-2 inches and maintain a soil moisture level of 6-8 inches. This will ensure that the crops germinate and grow rapidly, providing a reliable food source for the deer. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain a diverse crop rotation, planting new crops every 2-3 years to keep the soil fertile and the deer interested.