Answering the most common buyer question: which licking branch setups actually attract deer and stay active? This guide compares five popular options designed for deer scrapes, rubs, and mock interactions. Best for hunters who want quick, repeatable setups; better for property owners seeking year-round attractants; choose this if you prefer scent-only lures over urine-based options. The table below highlights key choices to consider at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| HODAG Licking Branch Mock Scrape Kit | Overhanging mock scrapes | Spring-enabled design, easy tree mounting | Requires setup at correct height |
| HODAG HempScent Rope | Rope lure setups | Year-round AllSeason scent, DIY scrape | Rope placement affects scent reach |
| HODAG Licking Stick Mock Scrape Kit (Tan / Orange) | Quick, single-use scent lure | Patented spring design for longer activity | Single-use scent requires replacement |
| Wildlife Research Center Golden Rope Scent Rope Kit | Rope-based lure setups | Natural fiber rope, concentrated scent | Requires frequent re-dipping for max impact |
| WILDLIFE RESEARCH CENTER Active-Branch Licking Branch Scent Spray | Active licking branches and rubs | Versatile, spray-based attractant | Spray can usage may vary by site |
HODAG Licking Branch Mock Scrape Kit
The HODAG Licking Branch is designed to create a nose-height mock scrape. It attaches to most trees with included screws or a 1-inch strap. The patented spring design absorbs repeated use, helping the scrape stay active even if the sapling dries out. It ships with HODAG AllSeason Scent, claimed to work year-round, reducing the need for multiple urine or estrus products. Best for: hunters wanting a ready-to-deploy, durable overhang that remains active across seasons. Caution: ensure proper height and secure mounting to prevent loosening during heavy deer activity. This kit is ideal for trail-camera setups and stands where an overhanging scent site improves interaction in front of the camera or stand.
HODAG HempScent Rope for Deer Hunting
The HempScent Rope kit offers a classic rope scrape approach with a 4 oz AllSeason scent. It is positioned as a self-sustaining setup that minimizes the need for constant reapplication. Best for: those who prefer a simple, fixed-location rope lure that can be deployed in front of trail cameras or stands. Limitations: scent longevity and rope placement can affect how strongly deer respond; regular re-dipping is recommended to maintain freshness.
HODAG Licking Stick Mock Scrape Kit (Tan)
The Licking Stick combines ease of setup with a spring mechanism that keeps the lick-site active in front of cameras or stands. It uses AllSeason Scent designed for single-use, aiming to jumpstart deer interaction with minimal ongoing maintenance. Best for: hunters who want a quick, low-maintenance option for a temporary season or trial of a mimic-scrape. Caution: because the scent is designed for a single use, ongoing scrapes may require fresh applications each season.
HODAG Licking Stick Mock Scrape Kit (Orange)
This orange-topped Licking Stick mirrors the tan version with a similar spring design for extended activity. The AllSeason Scent is marketed as a single-use attractant, enabling fast setup and clear one-time deployment. Best for: environments where visual cues (bright color) plus scent help guide deer to the scrape. Consider: color choice may influence deer attention depending on habitat and foliage.
Wildlife Research Center Golden Rope Scent Rope Kit
This kit combines natural fiber rope with a concentrated Gold Rope Scent, designed to dip the rope end and refresh scent across the season. Best for: users seeking a high-absorption rope with a strong scent concentrate. Limitation: the scent solution may dry over time; re-dipping helps maintain effectiveness during longer hunts.
KKONHII Metal Deer Licking Branch Holds (3 Sets)
These adjustable metal branch mounts provide a robust base for mock scrape setups, with rust-resistant coating and a three-screw base for heavy deer activity. Best for: builders who want a durable, modular mounting solution with multiple mounting options. Limitation: requires separate lure or scent to complete the scrape presentation; no scent is included.
Wildlife Research Center Active-Branch Licking Branch Scent Spray
This spray is designed to attract deer to licking branches, scrapes, and rub sites. Best for: users who want a versatile, spray-based attractant that can be applied to multiple surfaces. Limitations: spray can performance can vary with wind, temperature, and application technique.
BuckStik BuckBranch Mock Scrape System
The BuckStik BuckBranch system emphasizes quick setup with a simple base and branch connection. It is designed to retain deer hair and gland secretions, with a long-term, multi-year use concept. Best for: hunters who want a modular system capable of moving between properties. Caution: ensure the mounting base is solid to withstand deer pulling and wind. This kit is intended to be reused across seasons and locations.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Licking Branch And Mock Scrape Lures
- Placement and height: Position lures at nose height for target deer to encounter naturally. A secure mount prevents wobbling that could alert wary animals.
- Scent strategy: Year-round scents can reduce the need for multiple products. Evaluate whether your site benefits from single-use vs. multi-use formulas.
- Mounting flexibility: Look for adjustable or modular mounting systems to adapt to different tree sizes and terrains.
- Maintenance needs: Some setups require regular re-dipping or replacement to maintain attractant strength. Plan for season-long use if desired.
- Longevity vs. cost: Consider whether a reusable system offers better long-term value compared with single-use options.
- Environment and permissions: Ensure you have permission to deploy in hunting areas and consider the ecological impact of attractants.
- Compatibility with cameras: If you use trail cameras, opt for setups that keep the lick-site visible to the lens without obstructing distance.
FAQ
- What is a licking branch mock scrape kit?
– It is a setup that imitates a natural deer licking branch, often using a branch-like attachment, scent, and a mechanism to keep the site active for deer to interact with and mark. - Is AllSeason scent better than urine-based lures?
– AllSeason scent is marketed as usable year-round and often avoids the variability of urine-based products, but effectiveness depends on deer behavior and habitat. - Can I reuse a licking branch setup across seasons?
– Some systems are designed for long-term use and re-deployment; others are intended for single-season use with replacement components. - Where should I place these lures for best results?
– Position near travel routes, waters sources, and camera fields of view, at eye or nose height to maximize detection by deer and visibility in cameras. - Do these products attract other wildlife?
– Lure scents primarily target whitetails; other wildlife may respond variably depending on species and scent formulation. - What maintenance is required after initial setup?
– Periodic re-dipping or replacing scent, checking stake or strap security, and ensuring the scrape area remains fresh and accessible.