Quick Answer
To attract deer to a specific location, create a food source, use scents and pheromones, and provide a sheltered area with adequate bedding. This combination will entice deer to stay within the area. Effective placement of these elements is key.
Creating a Food Source
When hunting in areas with antler point restrictions, it’s essential to create a food source that will attract deer and keep them within the restricted zone. Planting a mixture of clover and alfalfa can provide a nutritious source of food for deer, and a 50/50 ratio of these plants is ideal. The key is to plant the seeds in early spring, when the ground is still moist, and to maintain a 10-foot diameter area of the mixture. This will ensure that deer frequent the area and stay within the restricted zone.
Utilizing Scents and Pheromones
Deer have an incredibly strong sense of smell and are naturally drawn to specific scents and pheromones. To attract deer to the food source, use scents such as deer urine, apple, and clover. Apply these scents to trees, rocks, and other objects within the 100-foot radius of the food source. When applying scents, use a 1:10 ratio of scent to water, and spray the mixture onto the objects. This will help to mask any human scent and will make the area more appealing to deer.
Providing Shelter and Bedding
Deer need adequate shelter and bedding to feel secure and comfortable within the area. To provide shelter, create a brush pile or a small thicket of trees and shrubs within the restricted zone. This will give deer a place to hide and escape from predators. For bedding, use a mix of pine straw and leaves, and apply it to the area in a 3-inch thick layer. This will help to keep deer comfortable and will encourage them to stay within the restricted zone.
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