Which scents attract velvet bucks the most during early season?

Scent Profiles for Velvet Bucks

During early season in the South Carolina Lowcountry, velvet bucks are highly responsive to scent profiles that mimic does in estrus. These scents typically include doe urine, particularly from does that are 30-60 days into their estrous cycle. For example, a scent blend consisting of 50% doe urine, 20% tannins from plants like persimmon or blackgum, and 30% musk can be highly effective.

Using Scent in the Field

When using scent in the field, it’s essential to apply it in a way that allows the buck to detect it easily. A common technique is to apply a small amount of scent to a tree or a brush pile, then immediately move to a position where the buck can detect the scent without seeing or smelling you. This can be as close as 50 yards or as far as 100 yards, depending on wind direction and other factors. Using a scent-impregnated drag rag can also be effective, especially when dragging it through areas where deer are likely to have been.

Scent Applications for Specific Situations

In the South Carolina Lowcountry, velvet bucks are often found in areas with dense vegetation, such as marshes or pine flatwoods. In these areas, a scent blend that includes scents like cedar and pine can be effective in attracting bucks. Additionally, applying scent to areas where deer are likely to have rubbed their antlers or urinated can be highly effective, as these areas often have high concentrations of deer scent.