Did you know that deer are most active at dawn and dusk? That’s why it’s important to be in your stand early in the morning and stay until after dark. But even if you’re in the right place at the right time deer won’t just walk up to your stand. You need to take some steps to attract them.
Here are a few tips on how to attract deer to your stand:
1. Use deer attractants
Deer attractants are food or scent-based products that can be used to lure deer into an area. There are many different types of attractants on the market so do some research to find the best one for your needs.
2. Set up a trail camera
A trail camera can be a valuable tool for attracting deer. By placing a camera near your stand you can get an idea of the deer in the area and when they’re active. This information can be used to adjust your hunting schedule accordingly.
3. Make a mock scrape
A mock scrape is a fake deer scrape that is used to attract deer. To make a mock scrape clear an area of leaves and dirt and then rub a branch or your hand over the ground to release your scent. Deer will be attracted to the scent and may even leave their own scent in the scrape.
4. Use decoys
Decoys can be used to attract deer into shooting range. There are many different types of decoys on the market so choose one that best suits your needs.
5. Be patient
Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is a successful deer stand. It takes time and patience to attract deer so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
How can I make my deer stand more attractive to deer?
Answer: Some things you can do to make your deer stand more attractive to deer include: making sure it is well-camouflaged placing it in an open area away from thick brush and putting out deer attractants such as corn apples or mineral licks.
How often should I use deer attractants?
Answer: You should generally refresh your deer attractants every 7-10 days.
What is the best type of deer attractant to use?
Answer: The best type of deer attractant to use depends on the time of year and what deer are currently feeding on.
In the spring and summer when deer are mostly eating vegetation fruit-based attractants work well.
In the fall and winter when deer are mostly eating acorns and other nuts grain-based attractants work well.
Where should I place my deer attractants?
Answer: You should place your deer attractants 20-40 yards away from your stand in an open area where deer can easily see and smell them.
Will deer be attracted to my stand if I use artificial lighting?
Answer: While artificial lighting can sometimes attract deer it is more likely to spook them.
If you do use artificial lighting use it sparingly and only at night.
What is the best time of day to hunt deer?
Answer: The best time of day to hunt deer is generally in the early morning or late evening when deer are most active.
What is the best time of year to hunt deer?
Answer: The best time of year to hunt deer varies depending on where you live but in general the fall is the best time to hunt deer.
How can I make my stand more comfortable?
Answer: Some things you can do to make your stand more comfortable include: bringing a cushion or chair to sit on using a footrest or platform to elevate your feet and using a blind or camouflage netting to conceal yourself.
How can I make my stand more stable?
Answer: Some things you can do to make your stand more stable include: attaching it to a tree with straps or brackets using guy wires to secure it and weighting it down with sandbags or rocks.
How can I stay warm in my stand?
Answer: Some things you can do to stay warm in your stand include: wearing warm clothes using hand and foot warmers and bringing a space heater.
How can I stay concealed in my stand?
Answer: Some things you can do to stay concealed in your stand include: wearing camouflage clothing using a blind or camouflage netting and avoiding movement.
How can I stay focused while I’m hunting?
Answer: Some things you can do to stay focused while hunting include: staying hydrated eating healthy snacks and taking breaks to move around and stretch.
What should I do if I see a deer?
Answer: If you see a deer the best thing to do is to stay calm and still.
If the deer is coming towards you remain motionless and wait for it to pass.
If the deer is moving away from you slowly and quietly stand up and take a shot.
What should I do if I miss a deer?
Answer: If you miss a deer the best thing to do is to stay calm and still.
Do not chase after the deer as this will only spook it.
If you can wait a few minutes and see if the deer will come back.
If it does take another shot.
What should I do if I kill a deer?
Answer: If you kill a deer the best thing to do is to field dress it as soon as possible.
This will help prevent the meat from spoiling.
