Mock Scrapes

Hi Jeff. Welcome to DIYB! Mock scrapes are interesting. I am originally from western NY state and we used to lay mock scrapes often, when needed. There are many factors to how to do it. I'll name a few. I am going to assume you are talking strictly whitetails.

The tree you pick doesn't matter, unless it's pine related. Choose a maple, oak, hickory or something with branches like that. Not to say that it hasn't happened, but I have yet to see a scrape under a pine. Make sure it's within range of your treestand and scope it out first. I have been unlucky before where I set up a great mock scrape and it the branch I put the dip stick on was right in my shooting lane.

I like to try to find an old scrape first and foremost. Then I use my scents to 'freshen up' the scrape. Always remember to use rubber gloves and try not to touch anything you don't have to. It'll definitely leave your mark.

If you have those swabs that hang from a branch and can dip it and hang it that will help, too. I try to find a corridor where I either see bucks or a line of scrapes and use one. I have seen bucks come in, sniff around and lock on to my scent stick. Sometimes they walk right by it. It all depends on the buck, time of season and human odor.

If I had to set up my own scrape I would plan on making sure to wear rubber boots sprayed down with 99% Scent Killer or something of equal value. I'd dig around under a branch with my heel and get the earth to show about 1.5' - 2' wide. I move any leaves and extra branches with another branch. That way I can toss the branch I have been holding far enough away so the deer don't smell my human odor on it. I'll then put a dip stick on a branch. I coat it good, too. I don't put more than one out though. Just the one. I'll then drip some doe urine around the scrape and a bit inside. Some people like to scour the earth up and mix in the attractant. Totally up to you.

Then it's time to set up a camera or if you don't have one just get up in your stand and wait. See what comes by. When you come back to your stand, check to see if it's been visited, but don't check it too often! Once in a while come back to freshen the scrape and hunt that spot.

I hope this helps. It's a bit wordy - I had too much coffee today. If you have any other questions ask away. I'd love to hear what the other guys have to say.