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Creating a Mock Scrape with Tink's Power Scrape
 

Creating a Mock Scrape with Tink's Power Scrape

 
 

In simplest terms, hunters create a mock scrape in order to make a buck think that another buck has moved in on his territory. Thus, the buck will return to the scrape in the hopes of finding the intruder and reaffirming his dominance over the area while the hunter waits patiently nearby. This tactic can be used in either a preexisting scrape or it can be done by making a totally new scrape (mock scrape). Either way, there are a few things to consider in order to maximize success when creating mock scrapes.

First is location. It helps if an area already has a few scrapes present, or it has had scrape activity in the past. This will make it easier for the buck(s) to locate the mock scrape. Often, a particular mock scrape scent is blamed for poor results when in fact, where the scrape was made has more influence on success.

Also consider how easy the area is to access for hunting and freshening your mock scrape. If you can’t enter and exit the area without being seen or heard it may not be the best spot for your new scrape.

The next factor to consider is that of human scent. When dealing with a whitetail’s nose it is of utmost importance to remain scent free; especially when creating mock scrapes. This is due to the fact that the buck will be drawn in with his nose (not his belly) and will easily detect any human odor left behind at the scene of the mock scrape. Always begin by taking a shower using Dead Down Wind Hair & Body wash. Next make sure you wear rubber boots and spray down with Dead Down Wind spray. Finally, and most importantly, be sure to wear rubber gloves when creating your mock scrape or applying scents. The goal is to leave behind as little scent as possible.

Once a proper location for the mock scrape has been found, it is time to create the fake “calling card” that will bring in other bucks. Start by choosing a spot with an overhead licking branch roughly 40 inches above the ground. Bucks will use this licking branch to deposit scent from their preorbital gland as well as saliva from their mouth. If a suitable branch cannot be found use a piece or rope or twine to tie a branch down to the proper height. A good licking branch can often be the key to success for any mock scrape.

Next, find a large, stiff branch to scrape away leaves and break the soil underneath the licking branch. Once the ground has been exposed, spray a liberal amount of Tink’s Power Scrape Mock Scrape Starter directly into the freshly broken dirt. This initial deposit of scent will help draw the curiosity of the local deer herd.

It is important to freshen the scrape once a week, every other week at most. However, this isn’t always possible or cost feasible. Two products in the Tink’s lineup can help prolong a mock scrape’s effectiveness. Tink’s Power Scrape Gel, which is thicker than the liquid form of Power Scrape, can add some longevity to a mock scrape while also withstanding moisture should rain become a factor.

Apply Tink’s Power Scrape Mock Scrape Starter liberally to the exposed ground underneath your licking branch.

The second product to consider is Tink’s Scrape Bomb Scraper Dripper. This product is designed to only drip during daylight hours, thus conditioning bucks to return during legal shooting hours. Also, when filled with the correct amount of lure, it can last 4-5 days before needing to be refilled. The Scraper Dripper (available in 2-pack) should be tied onto the overhead licking branch. Again, rubber gloves and boots are important to prevent contamination of the Scrape Dripper as well as the rest of the mock scrape.

Tink’s Scrape Bomb Scrape Drippers are a great way to keep your mock scrapes fresh for days at a time. This is perfect for locations that are hard to access on a regular basis.

Once the mock scrape has been made, leave the area as quickly as possible in order to avoid educating the local deer or further contaminating the location.

In time your mock scrape should draw the attention of any local bucks who will begin using the overhead licking branch and also depositing their own scent on the ground. As the seasons change and deer begin to rut you can try using other Tink’s lures in your scrape including Trophy Buck lure which works great during the pre-rut and Tink’s #69 during the rut.

Mature bucks like this Illinois brute can’t resist the desire to find out who is intruding on their territory. Mock scrapes are a great way to capitalize on a buck’s need for dominance.

With proper planning and execution a mock scrape can be a great tool to help you tag a trophy buck this fall.

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