Deer-hunting scents an important part of bow-hunting equation

Finding an edge when hunting trophy bucks is one key to success. It is different for every hunter, but some we call buck mechanics are beginning to discover the effectiveness of a well-orchestrated plan using deer scents to attract deer, as well as using scent killers to keep from scaring them away.

Sure, playing the wind correctly is crucial, but it is not the whole story.

Deer-hunting scent chemistry has undergone a tremendous amount of development since the old days of selling a brown bottle with any ole doe pee in it. Today, these concoctions are more science than mere collection from a bunch of random deer either bucks or does.

This is especially the case with the human odor-elimination sprays. Controlling human scent in the woods is perhaps even more essential than using buck urine to draw the attention of a territorial buck in the area.

Using both is the strategy a buck mechanic would use to fine tune their hunting tactics.

Whitetail attractant scents

“There was a time when I used to laugh at using doe pee,” Kerry French said. “That changed the day when I had a scent pad hanging from a low tree limb and a buck came right out of cover directly to it. Ever since, I give these scents the benefit of the doubt.

“I did learn over time, though, that a little goes a long way. I’ve seen guys pour a whole bottle out around one stand. When was the last time you took a leak in a half dozen spots in the same area? A doe stops, does her business and moves on. Think of that when you use doe urine or estrus scents.”

There are several brands of very effective deer scents worth considering. Try Wildlife Research Center, and Code Blue, particularly, with a scent drag tied to your boot.

Human odor eliminators

The other half of the scent equation is to mask human scent — be it from no shower, deodorant, gasoline or bacon.

These applications immediately neutralize all forms of unnatural scent on the body, clothes, boots, firearms, bows, tree stands and all other gear. I mean, why risk it when just a quick spray-down can help control these unwanted buck-scaring scents.

Again many choices are out there on dealers’ shelves, but I recommend you try these: Atsko N-O-DOR, Wildlife Research Scent Killer, Knight & Hale Eliminator and Code Blue Eliminx.

Mississippi’s own Primos also offers the Silver brand product line of scent eliminators.