Quick Answer
Effective scent attractants near scrapes include doe urine, buck urine, and attractant sprays that mimic the scent of a doe in estrus, as these scents encourage bucks to return to and investigate the area.
Scent Choices for Scrapes
When choosing scent attractants to place near scrapes, focus on products that mimic the scent of a doe in estrus. A doe’s scent is a powerful trigger for bucks, and products containing doe urine are often highly effective. Look for products that contain a high concentration of doe urine, such as 100% pure doe urine or a blend of 80% doe urine and 20% buck urine. Some popular options include scent sticks, scent wicks, and liquid attractants.
Placing Scent Near Scrapes
When placing scent near scrapes, aim to create a scent trail that leads from the scrape to the attractant. This can be achieved by placing the scent attractant near the base of a tree or along a trail leading to the scrape. The scent trail should be strong enough to guide the buck to the attractant, but not so strong that it overwhelms the buck and causes it to leave the area. A general rule of thumb is to use 1-2 sprays of attractant, spaced 10-15 feet apart, to create a gentle scent trail.
Timing and Combination of Scent
Timing and combination of scent are also crucial when using scent attractants near scrapes. For best results, apply the scent attractant 24-48 hours before hunting, allowing the scent to settle and become familiar to the bucks in the area. When combining scents, start with a light application of doe urine and add a small amount of buck urine, if desired, to create a more intense scent. Avoid over-saturating the area with scent, as this can lead to scent saturation and a decrease in effectiveness.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.