Should You Use Scent Lures in the Chasing Phase?

Scent Lure Strategies for the Pre-Rut

When used correctly, scent lures can be a game-changer during the pre-rut period, typically around 10-14 days before the peak rut. Apply a small amount of scent to your stands or trails to create a “calling card” that can attract deer from a distance. Focus on using high-intensity scents like tarsal glands, doe-in-heat or buck urine, and apply them directly to tree trunks, branches, or other high-traffic areas.

Scent Lure Timing and Placement in the Rut

In the early rut, around 3-7 days after the peak, scent lures can be used to re-activate a dormant stand or to attract deer to a new location. However, it’s essential to reapply scent regularly, ideally every 2-3 days, to maintain its effectiveness. When placing scent lures in the rut, focus on areas with high deer activity, such as food sources, rubs, and scrapes.

Avoiding Over-Reliance on Scent Lures in the Chasing Phase

During the peak rut, deer are often in a frenzied state, and they tend to rely more on instinct and visual cues rather than scent. Over-reliance on scent lures in this phase can lead to inconsistent results and may even chase deer away. Instead, focus on using visual decoys, such as buck decoys or mock scrapes, to attract deer during the peak rut.