Can you use attractant scents successfully in velvet?

Choosing the Right Scent

When hunting velvet, it’s essential to choose scents that mimic the dominant bucks in the area. I recommend using a scent blend that includes notes of cedar, birch, and pine, as these are commonly found in the Great Lakes region. Use a scent diffuser or apply the scent directly to your clothing, aiming for a strength of 1-2 sprays per minute of daylight.

Timing and Placement

Timing is critical when using attractant scents in velvet. Apply scents in the morning and late afternoon when bucks are most active. Place scents near likely travel routes, such as food sources, waterways, or bedding areas. Avoid applying scents near actual bedding sites, as this can spook the bucks. Instead, use a scent drag or a series of small scent applications along the intended path.

Managing Scent Dosage and Duration

To avoid over-scenting the area, manage your scent dosage carefully. Apply scents in short, 10-15 minute bursts, allowing the scent to dissipate before reapplying. Monitor the wind direction and speed to ensure the scent is carried downwind, rather than back to your stand. Adjust your scent application schedule as needed, taking into account changes in weather, moon phase, and buck behavior.