Summer might feel like the off-season for many hunters, but for those looking to fill their tags later in the year, the work starts now. In the Texas heat, deer and other wildlife are actively seeking nutrition to support antler growth and overall health. Using the right wildlife attractants during these months does more than just bring animals to your property; it helps establish a routine that pays off when hunting season opens.
Effective summer hunting prep requires a strategy. You need to know what attracts deer during the hot months and how to keep them coming back. This guide breaks down the best attractants to use right now and how to deploy them for maximum success on your Houston-area lease or land.
1. Mineral Sites and Supplements
During summer, bucks are pouring significant energy into antler development, while does are nursing fawns. This makes mineral sites one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal.
- Why They Work: Deer crave salt and minerals like calcium and phosphorus this time of year. A well-established mineral site becomes a social hub for the herd.
- How to Use Them: Select a location near water or a known bedding area. Clear away leaves and debris to expose the soil. Pour a granular mineral attractant directly onto the ground or use a mineral block. The minerals leach into the soil, creating a long-lasting lick that deer will return to repeatedly.
2. Protein-Rich Feeds
While natural browse is available in summer, it often lacks the protein density needed for maximum growth. Supplemental feeding bridges this gap.
- The Protein Boost: Look for pelleted feeds with at least 16-20% protein content. This helps bucks maximize their genetic potential for antler size and ensures does stay healthy enough to raise strong fawns.
- Consistency is Key: Use gravity feeders or trough feeders to provide a steady supply. Once deer know where the high-quality food is, they will pattern their movements around it. This habit-forming behavior is crucial for your fall strategy.
3. Scents and Liquid Attractants
Liquid attractants are versatile and offer a strong aroma that can draw deer from a distance.
- Sweet and Fruity: In the summer, deer have a sweet tooth. Molasses, apple, or berry-scented liquids are incredibly effective.
- Application: Pour these liquids over rotting stumps, logs, or directly onto feed. The strong scent carries through the humid summer air, piquing the curiosity of nearby wildlife and encouraging them to investigate your setup.
4. Water Sources
Never underestimate the power of water in a Texas summer. If your property lacks natural water sources, creating an artificial one can be the ultimate attractant.
- Strategic Placement: Place a small trough or dig a simple water hole near your feeding or mineral sites. In the scorching heat, animals will gravitate toward hydration, making your spot the most comfortable place to be.
Your Summer Prep Headquarters in Houston
Proper preparation today leads to a full freezer tomorrow. By providing the minerals and nutrition wildlife need now, you build a healthier herd and a more successful hunting season.
For all your summer hunting prep needs, visit Steinhauser’s. Serving the Houston area, we stock a wide variety of premium wildlife attractants, high-protein feeds, and mineral supplements. Our team understands Texas hunting and can help you select the best products to keep wildlife on your property. Stop by Steinhauser’s in Houston today to get your season started right.