Deer Hunting Scrapes
Deer Hunting Tips- A scrape is a relatively small area cleared of leaves, dirt, and debris. A buck makes a scrape by raking the area with it’s front legs. A scrape is made to identify dominance, mark terrain, and to signal the rutting period is near.
Locations And Sizes
Scrapes can be found on the edges of fields, near other food sources, bedding areas, and any other travel areas used by bucks. There may be a single scrape here and there or a line of scrapes found throughout the woods. They come in different sizes from 1-2 feet in diameter on up to 4 feet or more.
Frequency Of Use
Some scrapes are made by bucks and then left alone. Others will be made and occasionally cleaned out again from time to time. Then there are those few scrapes that are kept clean throughout the season. More than one buck will often use the same scrape.
Active Or Inactive
There are two types of scrapes. Those that are active and those that are not. Obviously when it comes to hunting, finding the active scrapes is the important factor. However, this is not the only factor.
The next step is to locate an active scrape line. This consist of several scrapes in a directional pattern. Such findings will be more productive than hunting a single scrape. It is also better for the line to be inside of cover rather than in open terrain.
When To Hunt
When it comes to hunting scrapes, generally the best time is during the few weeks leading up to the rutting period. This is usually when bucks become more likely to visit during day light hours. Bucks will scent check and freshen up the scrapes looking to get the first indications of does coming into estrus.
Good luck and be safe.
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