Deer hunting is sometimes tedious – especially if you don’t know the right strategies to hunt deer. You might be familiar with deer signs such as beds, trails, beds, rubs, and scrapes to hunt deer.
Deer scrapes should be one of your deer hunting methods. But there’s one little problem: deer scrapes are sometimes found in the wrong spot. Mock scrapes allow deer hunters to lure deer (such as bucks) to the right spot. But you must know How to Create a Mock Scrape for Deer Hunting.
Why You Should Make Mock Scrapes
Before you create your own mock scrapes, let’s first know why you should make one. A mock scrape is the best thing to attract deer. Mock scrapes make deer curious.
When they see one, deer leave their scent there so that other deer know their status. A buck urinates in the mock scrapes to send a message that they want to breed or let other deer know their dominance.
With mock scrapes, you can bring the deer closer to the hunting range. When deer find mock scrapes, they will check them often. Once deer notice or see mock scrapes, they’ll leave their scent through urinating.
Since mock scrapes attract deer, you’ll have the edge to shoot your target easily. The deer won’t notice any trail cameras to give you the perfect opportunity to hunt the deer.
How to Create a Mock Scrape for Deer Hunting
Now that you know why it’s essential to create a mock scrape, it’s time to start creating one. I’ll show easy-to-follow tips and tricks to create a mock scrape successfully.
Find the Perfect Spot
Don’t waste your time creating a mock scrape in the wrong location. Find a location along the “habitat edge.” Deer love to trail on habitat edges, so it’s easy for them to find the location.
Next, find a trail (which deer use often) along the edge so that you’ll have a focused and better location. Last, make sure there’s a tree in the mock scrape location where you can place a tree stand. It would allow you to spot the deer and prepare your rifle. You can use a scope or an AR15 red dot to help you aim and take a clear shot.
Pro Tip: The tree you’ll find along the well-used trail should have 4ft branch height. The tree branch is essential because bucks deposit scent here via their forehead. Make sure the spot under the branch is free from shrubs or grass so that it’s easy for you to scratch.
Determine the Scrape Size
A mock scrape doesn’t need to be huge. Hunters prefer scrapes measuring two feet across to five feet across. New deer hunters could start creating mock scrapes that are two feet across. These mock scrapes are big enough for any deer to notice it.
Control Your Scent
Make sure you’re scent-free while creating the scrape. Scent control isn’t only for low-impact deer hunting. Hunters also use scent control strategies in creating mock scrapes.
Start by making the scrape site scent-free. Wear odorless clothing and rubber boots when you approach the scrape location.
Create the Mock Scrape
The essential part of creating a mock scrape is the construction itself. A mock scrape gives different results when you’re hunting a buck:
- Bucks would check the mock scrape occasionally.
- Dominance with other bucks.
- Directs the deer to the right location.
As mentioned earlier, Rake at least a 2 to 3-foot circle using a stick. Don’t step on the scrape spot when you’re scratching dirt even if you’re wearing rubber boots. Place deer attractant scent once you expose the dirt.
Pro Tip: The mock scrape should be 20 yards from your tree stand. The distance allows you to spot the deer such as a buck secretly. You can lure the deer to the same spot until the right time you make a shot.
Apply Deer Attractant Scents
Construct the mock scrape correctly before you apply attractants. Hunters who are careful in constructing good mock scrapes have the edge to accomplish their goals.
First, you can use scent drippers designed for holding scents for several weeks. Drip scent during the day because bucks arrive during this time. Second, use a scent wick in luring bucks. A large amount of scent can make bucks curious that make them stay at the scraped spot longer.
Pro Tip: Latex gloves are a good choice for your hands while applying deer attractant. The gloves are easy to use and affordable, so it’s perfect even for newbie hunters. Don’t touch the branches unless you need to apply scents to them.
Level Up Your Mock Scrape Creation
Don’t give up if your first mock scrape creation failed. Try again – but this time – apply a few twists on your mock scrapes.
For example, make a mock scrape at the edge of a field. Place food near the spot so that it’s easier for you to lure deer. Hunters refer to this as a “food plot”. Position yourself on the treestand so that you can have a better view of the deer.
Another method you can use is applying a scent drag system. Place the scent drag system (if legal) near to other lures. Once you place the scent attractants, it’s now easy for you to hunt deer. You can get a good aim by placing a scent that drives a deer closer to your ground blind or treestand.
Conclusion
Mock scrapes allow deer hunter to level up their hunting efforts. It’s not difficult constructing a mock scrape, so even new deer hunters can make it. Wear scent-free clothing as you approach the scrape site. You can also use rubber boots to eliminate your scent.
If you know How to Create a Mock Scrape for Deer Hunting, you’ll have the edge over other hunters. With the right preparation and methods, you’ll become a pro deer hunter in no time. So, start building a mock scrape for deer hunting today!
Last Updated on January 4, 2024 by Marty Prokop
