Hunting season is serious business. You’ve got your gear, your stand is set, and you’re ready to go. But are you using the right lure? Choosing the right buck lure can make all the difference between going home empty-handed and bagging that trophy buck. It’s not just about attracting any deer, it’s about attracting the *right* deer. This year, I’ve tested a bunch of different scents, and I’m here to share my top picks to help you fill your freezer.
Quick Product Overview:
- Code Blue Scents Standing Estrous: Best overall for attracting mature bucks during the rut.
- Wildlife Research Center Special Golden Estrus: Great for early season and pre-rut, with a strong, long-lasting scent.
- Tink’s #69 Doe-In-Rut Buck Lure: A classic, affordable option that’s easy to find and proven effective.
- Buck Bomb Doe ‘N Estrus Scent Dispenser: Convenient aerosol can for creating a scent cloud, perfect for covering large areas.
- Primos Silver XP3 Buck Lure: A premium blend with a unique scent profile designed to attract bucks from long distances.
Top 5 Best Buck Lures
Code Blue Scents Standing Estrous
Code Blue Standing Estrous is a high-quality, single-deer-source estrus scent known for its effectiveness during the rut. It’s collected from individual does to ensure purity and consistency. This lure is designed to mimic the scent of a doe in heat at her peak, making it irresistible to mature bucks.
Pros:
- ✅ High-quality, single-source scent.
- ✅ Extremely effective during the peak rut.
- ✅ Attracts mature bucks.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Scent can be too strong if overused.
- ❌ Best suited for a specific time of year (rut).
Verdict: If you’re serious about attracting a big buck during the rut and are willing to spend a little more, Code Blue Standing Estrous is an excellent choice.
Wildlife Research Center Special Golden Estrus
Wildlife Research Center’s Special Golden Estrus is a versatile lure that works well throughout the pre-rut and early rut phases. Its unique scent profile is designed to pique a buck’s curiosity and draw them in from a distance. This product is known for its long-lasting scent and ease of use.
Pros:
- ✅ Effective during pre-rut and early rut.
- ✅ Long-lasting scent.
- ✅ Good for attracting bucks from a distance.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as effective during the peak of the rut compared to estrous-specific lures.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey.
- ❌ Some users find the scent too artificial.
Verdict: This is a solid choice for hunters looking for a reliable lure that performs well in the weeks leading up to the peak rut.
Tink’s #69 Doe-In-Rut Buck Lure
Tink’s #69 Doe-In-Rut Buck Lure is a classic, widely available, and affordable option that has been a favorite among hunters for years. It’s a synthetic doe-in-rut scent that’s designed to trigger a buck’s natural breeding instincts. I remember my grandfather swearing by this stuff, and it’s still a popular choice today.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable and widely available.
- ✅ Proven effective over many years.
- ✅ Easy to use.
Cons:
- ❌ Synthetic scent may not be as appealing as natural scents to some bucks.
- ❌ Doesn’t always work as well in areas with high hunting pressure.
- ❌ Scent can dissipate quickly, requiring frequent reapplication.
Verdict: For budget-conscious hunters or those new to using buck lures, Tink’s #69 is a good starting point.
Buck Bomb Doe ‘N Estrus Scent Dispenser
The Buck Bomb Doe ‘N Estrus Scent Dispenser is a convenient aerosol can that releases a cloud of doe-in-estrus scent. It’s a quick and easy way to create a widespread scent zone, especially useful for covering larger areas or masking human scent. The “one-time” dispenser is great if you want to saturate the area.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to use and convenient.
- ✅ Creates a wide scent dispersal area.
- ✅ Can help mask human scent.
Cons:
- ❌ Scent doesn’t last as long as liquid lures.
- ❌ Can be affected by wind conditions.
- ❌ One-time use can be wasteful.
Verdict: If you need a quick and easy way to disperse scent over a large area, the Buck Bomb is a great option, especially for masking your own scent when entering your hunting area.
Primos Silver XP3 Buck Lure
Primos Silver XP3 Buck Lure is a premium lure formulated with a unique blend of scents designed to attract bucks from long distances. It contains a combination of doe-in-estrus, buck urine, and glandular secretions. I’ve had some success with this one in areas where other lures didn’t seem to be working.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique scent profile that can attract bucks from afar.
- ✅ Contains a blend of different attractants.
- ✅ Long-lasting scent.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other lures.
- ❌ The complex scent profile may not be appealing to all bucks.
- ❌ Can be difficult to find in some stores.
Verdict: Hunters looking for a premium lure with a unique scent blend that can draw bucks in from long distances should consider Primos Silver XP3.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right buck lure can be overwhelming, but here are a few key factors to consider:
- Time of the Season: Different lures work best at different times. Doe-in-estrus scents are most effective during the rut, while curiosity scents can work well during the pre-rut and post-rut.
- Type of Scent: Consider whether you want a natural scent (collected from real deer) or a synthetic scent. Natural scents tend to be more effective, but they are also more expensive.
- Application Method: Lures come in various forms, including liquids, aerosols, and gels. Choose the application method that best suits your hunting style and the area you’re hunting in.
- Hunting Pressure: In areas with high hunting pressure, bucks may be more wary of common scents. Consider using a less common or more complex scent blend.
- Weather Conditions: Wind and rain can affect the dispersal of scent. Choose a lure that is appropriate for the weather conditions you expect to encounter.
Experimentation is key. What works for me might not work for you, and vice-versa. Don’t be afraid to try different lures and see what works best in your hunting area.
FAQs
Q: How do I apply buck lure?
A: Apply lure to scent wicks, drag rags, or directly to the ground near your stand. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results.
Q: How often should I reapply buck lure?
A: Reapply lure every few hours, or more frequently in windy or rainy conditions. Check the product label for specific recommendations.
Q: Can I use too much buck lure?
A: Yes, using too much lure can be counterproductive. It can create an overwhelming scent that spooks deer. Use lure sparingly and strategically.
Q: What’s the difference between doe-in-estrus and buck lure?
A: Doe-in-estrus lures mimic the scent of a female deer in heat, attracting bucks looking to breed. Buck lures often contain buck urine and glandular secretions, which can challenge other bucks or pique their curiosity.
Q: Can I use buck lure before the rut?
A: Yes, curiosity scents and early-season estrus blends can be effective before the rut. They can help attract bucks and establish your hunting area as a place to be.
Conclusion
Choosing the best buck lure ultimately depends on your specific hunting situation and the time of year. Code Blue Standing Estrous is my top pick for the rut, while Wildlife Research Center Special Golden Estrus is great for the pre-rut. Tink’s #69 remains a dependable and affordable option. The Buck Bomb offers convenience, and Primos Silver XP3 is worth trying if you need something a little different. Good luck this season, and I hope you bag that buck of a lifetime!
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