Attracting deer consistently can be challenging, but the right attractant, strategically mixed with corn, significantly improves your odds. While corn is a staple deer food, supplementing it with a powerful attractant can make all the difference between a successful hunt and an empty stand. This guide explores the best deer attractants to mix with corn, focusing on effectiveness, scent profiles, and ease of use.
Why Mix Attractants with Corn?
Corn provides essential carbohydrates, but it lacks the strong scent and nutritional complexity that truly entice deer. Mixing attractants boosts the appeal in several ways:
- Enhanced Scent: Attractants mask human scent and introduce powerful, irresistible deer-specific aromas.
- Nutritional Boost: Many attractants offer additional nutrients like minerals and vitamins, increasing deer's overall health and making your feeding area more attractive.
- Improved Palatability: Some attractants improve the overall taste of the corn, encouraging deer to consume more.
- Increased Curiosity: A new scent can pique deer's curiosity, drawing them in for investigation, even if they've previously ignored the corn alone.
Top Deer Attractants to Pair with Corn:
Several excellent attractants can significantly increase the effectiveness of your corn. Consider these top contenders:
1. Mineral Supplements:
Mineral licks and supplements are crucial for deer health, especially during the rut or harsh winter months. Mixing a small amount of mineral supplement with your corn provides a nutritional boost, attracting deer and keeping them coming back for more.
- How to use: Sprinkle a mineral supplement directly onto your corn pile.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):
Deer are naturally drawn to the sweet, tangy scent of apple cider vinegar. It masks human scent while providing a unique and appealing aroma.
- How to use: Dilute ACV with water and lightly spray it over your corn pile. Avoid overdoing it, as too much can be off-putting.
3. Vanilla Extract:
A surprising but effective attractant, vanilla extract mimics the natural scent of certain plants deer find appealing. Use it sparingly, as a small amount goes a long way.
- How to use: Similar to ACV, lightly spray diluted vanilla extract over your corn.
4. Commercial Deer Attractants:
The market offers a wide variety of commercially produced deer attractants, many formulated specifically to attract and retain deer. Read reviews carefully to find a product with a proven track record and positive user feedback. Look for attractants that contain natural ingredients and avoid those with harsh chemicals.
- How to use: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and methods.
Important Considerations for Success:
- Placement: Place your corn and attractant mix strategically, considering prevailing winds and deer travel patterns. Consider using a feeder or creating a ground pile in a secluded area.
- Consistency: Regularly replenishing your corn and attractant mix is crucial. Inconsistent feeding can discourage deer.
- Scent Control: Always practice good scent control when visiting your feeding area. Avoid using scented soaps, lotions, or detergents.
- Legal Regulations: Always check your local hunting regulations regarding the use of deer attractants and feeding deer. Some areas may have restrictions or outright bans.
Conclusion:
By strategically mixing the right attractant with your corn, you can significantly improve your chances of attracting and holding deer. Experiment with different combinations and approaches to discover what works best in your specific location and hunting conditions. Remember to always hunt ethically and responsibly, respecting wildlife and adhering to all applicable regulations.
