Hunting Tips - Using Non-Traditional Scents

When it comes to hunting, the use of scent is one of the most critical factors in both attracting game and concealing human presence. While many hunters rely on commercial products, non-traditional scents, often sourced from household items, can be effective and cost-efficient alternatives. This guide outlines how and why to integrate these scents into your hunting strategy.

Understanding Scent Strategy

The goal of using any scent is twofold: to mask human scent and to pique the curiosity or natural instincts of the target game. Non-traditional scents should be used with caution, as you want to introduce a smell that is either naturally occurring in the environment or completely unknown, prompting an investigation from the animal.

Non-Traditional Scents for Masking

Human odor is easily detected by game animals. Introducing a strong, but natural, non-traditional scent can confuse an animal's nose, allowing you to get closer.

Scent Type	Example	Application Strategy
Food-based	Vanilla extract	Apply a small amount to boot soles or scent wicks; must be pure extract
Earthy	Pine needles	Rub needles directly on clothing or place in storage bins with gear
Smoke	Woodsmoke from fire	Stand downwind of a small, contained fire before the hunt
Commercial	unscented soap	Use for washing clothes and body before entering the field

Non-Traditional Scents for Attracting

Unlike masking scents, attractants are meant to entice the animal to your location. These should mimic natural food sources or other stimuli that would draw in the target species.

Raccoon Attractants

Raccoons are omnivores and are often drawn to very sweet or greasy smells.

• Anise Oil: A few drops on a cotton ball near a trap or stand can draw in a curious raccoon.
• Fish Oil: Oily fish products, though messy, are powerful attractants.

Fowl Attractants

For birds like turkeys, scent is less critical than sight and sound, but certain smells can add to the illusion of a feeding area.

• Pecans: Crushed or lightly scented with natural oils, these can mimic a potential food source on the ground.

Other Game

For game like wild pigs, their keen sense of smell makes them susceptible to strong food-related non-traditional scents.

• Molasses: A small amount mixed with feed or applied to a tree stump can be highly effective.

Best Practices for Scent Use

Regardless of the scent you choose, consistency and cleanliness are key to a successful hunt.

1. Storage: Store all hunting clothes and gear in airtight containers with the non-traditional masking scent (e.g., pine needles).
2. Wind Direction: Always be mindful of the wind. Even the best scent can fail if the wind carries your human scent directly to the game.
3. Moderation: Use non-traditional scents sparingly. Too much of any scent can alarm an animal.

Equipment and Supplies

Always keep a dedicated scent kit organized and ready to go. You can easily find these materials in a typical home or camping supply store.

Item	Purpose
Cotton balls	Application of liquid scents
Air-tight containers	Storing scent-infused clothes
Scent wicks	Hanging attractant scents off the ground
Spray bottle	Mixing and applying diluted liquid scents