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If you want a successful hunting season, you not only need to camouflage your body with the right clothes, you need to camouflage your smell with the right cover scent.
With the right cover scent, you will be able to get that 400-kilogram trophy you have coveted for a long time.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Cover Scents For Deer Hunting
- OUR TOP PICK: Wildlife Research Gold 1 Gallon
- RUNNER-UP: Scent Killer 559 Wildlife Research Super Charged Spray
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Hunter's Specialties Fresh Earth Cover (3 scent wafers)
Comparison of the Best Cover Scents For Deer Hunting
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Is a Cover Scent Necessary?
You may have the best rifle or hunting bow and have the best traps laid but still after days of being in your favorite hunting spot you may not see any game coming your way. This is because deer have a great advantage over humans. Their sense of smell is much sharper than ours. They can smell foreign scents, like our clothes and skin, from afar.
Once they smell something unnatural, they stay from that spot and this is where cover scents come in. They effectively mask human smells, thus lulling the deer into a false sense of safety. If you want to have a rewarding hunt, getting a good cover scent should be part of your hunting strategy.
How to Choose a Quality Cover Scent
There are different kinds of natural and artificial masking scents available to mask your scent during the hunt. You can choose from natural cover sprays such as apple, pine, acorn, and earth or from scents designed to smell like fox, skunk, or raccoon urine. But before choosing a cover scent, you should know a few things about the environment where you plan on hunting.
Before the invention of cover sprays and mask scents, hunters used to rub themselves with local flora such as mashed acorns, pine needles, and even dirt. The logic behind this was that if you wanted to mask your scent in the forest, try to smell like a native species.
Similarly, when you are using cover scents, there is no use covering yourself with pine-coated cover spray if you will be hunting in a deciduous forest. Also, you won’t be able to trick a buck with raccoon urine if he has never encountered a raccoon before.
However, a good place to start with odor-masking scents is with an aerosol scent-killing spray that you can easily spray on your hunting gear and clothes, as well as boots. You can also use an additional cover scent that matches your environment, such as sage, red fox urine, or cedar.
Review of the Best Cover Scents For Deer Hunting
There are hundreds of cover scent products on the market, but for this article, we have selected some of the best cover scents for deer hunting available to help you find one that suits you best:
Best Overall:
Wildlife Research Gold 1-Gallon
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found this product to be very effective and feel that after using this, they cannot have a successful hunting season without this amazing product. They also love the fact that it comes with a one-gallon refill, therefore, it is going to last a long time. They are highly satisfied with this product's performance, as it is the best scent killer for deer hunting because it works efficiently when both dry and wet. This saves them the trouble of re-spraying their hunting gear in the middle of the hunt.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Who likes to wear wet clothes? The thing that we like most about this product is that you can spray your hunting gear days before the hunt and it will still be effective. We are very impressed with this highly-advanced scientific formula, as it is not only able to last long, it attacks a large number of odors simultaneously while preventing new ones from forming.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is best for all deer hunters as it successfully masks human odor, thus ensuring a successful hunt. It is available in large quantities, making it perfect for frequent hunters. It can be used on clothes as well as boots, making it very popular among seasoned, as well as inexperienced, hunters.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Users have complained that the spray bottle was not closed tightly by the manufacturer. Therefore, we feel that the manufacturer should pay attention to this issue to save the consumer from any loss.
Bottom Line
If you want a successful hunting season, this product is a must for you. It is scientifically formulated to last long and is effective at attacking various odors simultaneously, thus making it the best product available.
Runner-up:
Scent Killer 559 Wildlife Research Super-Charged Spray
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are delighted with this product because whenever they have used it, they have not returned from a deer hunt empty-handed. It can be safely sprayed on all the things hunters need in the field, including backpacks, gloves, hat, etc. Some buyers have also reported that it is highly-effective in fox hunts, too.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like this product because it has been designed keeping the comfort of hunters in mind. Hunters can spray their clothes and gear with this spray beforehand, as this product is highly effective even when dry. Thus, they do not have to go out hunting in wet clothes which can be very uncomfortable.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an amazing product which is highly effective for various hunts, including bear, fox, and deer. Therefore it is popular among all hunters who do not want to miss their shot. Also, it comes with a refill bottle, which ensures that hunters will be able to use it for a long time.
What Could Be Improved and Why
This is a highly-effective formula and there is hardly anything that could be changed. However, users have complained that when this product arrived, it was either broken or had issues with packaging, which resulted in leakage. We feel that the manufacturer should address this issue in order to prevent leakage and ensure the customers receive the product properly sealed.
Bottom Line
The Scent Killer 559 is an effective product that provides hunters with a high level of comfort. The best thing about Scent Killer 559 is that once you spray it all over your clothes and gear, you will not need to do it again and again while you are out hunting. So if you want to enjoy hunting and be successful on every hunt, this product is a great choice for you.
Best for the Money:
Hunter's Specialties Fresh Earth Cover (3 Scent Wafers)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many hunters report that before they started using this product, they busted every time. No deer or hog would come near them, even when they sprayed themselves with other cover scents. But after they started using these wafers, they have been successful hunting down their prey every time.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a fantastic product that is not only easy to use but also never goes bad, freezes, or spills. Moreover, when you put these wafers back in the re-sealable containers, they revitalize themselves. Thus, you can use them repeatedly. You can throw your hunting clothes in a tub with these wafers for a few days and they'll smell like real dirt, which will make you invisible to a deer.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is for hunters who want to catch a good amount of game every season. Its earth smell provides the perfect camouflage. Thus, hunters who use the Hunter’s Specialties Fresh Earth Cover will be able to catch even the most elusive game. Also, it is reusable, therefore, hunters can easily use it season after season.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Some people find that this product scared their prey. They also report that the deer avoided the location after the first kill. Thus, a slight change in the formula will make this product more effective and will help the hunters catch their game more easily.
Bottom Line
The Hunter’s Specialties Fresh Earth Cover is a fast and effective scent cover which provides good value for money. The wafers are long-lasting and renewable in their storage containers. You can easily pin them to your clothes, hat, belt loop, or even to your shoelace to mask your smell completely.
4. Dead Down Wind Trophy Hunter Kit
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have found this product perfect for their hunting needs. They also think that it is a great item for a gift or can be used as a travel kit. They are satisfied with its performance and think that the package deal is available at a good price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like the fact that the manufacturers have thought of everything that a hunter may require on a hunting trip and presented it in an easy to carry box. The laundry detergent removes all blood and mud stains and eliminates human odor from hunting garments. The field spray helps to mask human scent from clothes and hunting accessories. There is also a refill, which ensures that hunters do not need to worry about the liquid running out while they are out in the field.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is perfect for hunters who want to be completely prepared for the hunting season. This box contains ten products, namely laundry detergent, liquid spray, spray refill, three Pac-It refills, a bar of soap with a travel case, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 lip balm, and a five-color face camouflage wheel. All these products are specially formulated to minimize human odors, thus making them perfect for all hunters.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Some users reported that when they received this product, the spray bottle had leaked all of its contents out in the box and what they received was an empty spray bottle. However, a slight change in the way these bottles are sealed can easily take care of this issue. Thus, the manufacturers should rectify this problem to save consumers from any inconvenience.
Bottom Line
The Dead Down Wind Trophy Hunter Kit is a wonderful package that contains everything for a successful hunt. It is an environmentally-friendly product which provides good value for money. Its special formula makes it ideal for sensitive skin. Thus, if you want to stay undetected in the field, this product is for you.
5. Nose Jammer Natural Scent-Masking Aerosol Field Spray
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are truly amazed by the performance of this product. They have reported that game animals venture close to them and do not seem to smell them. They particularly love the fact that it works in any wind conditions and renders the game's sense of smell useless. This allows them to get closer to make that perfect shot.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a very safe product which was developed by using compounds emitted by shrubs, grasses, and trees. Deer are familiar with these scents and do not find them alarming, which makes this product highly effective. Also, it is not only easy to use, but is also ideal for all types of hunting.
Who Will Use This Most
Whether you are on a hunt for bull, deer, or elk, this product is highly effective. It is made from chemical compounds found in common vegetation. Thus, it is safe to use. It also puts the game animals at ease as they only smell the forest odors they are used to. It is available in aerosol spray cans, which makes it very easy to use. Therefore, it can easily be used by all hunters.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Using this product in large quantities could leave behind a sticky residue when you spray it on your clothes or stand. Also, if something gets stuck to the residue and ripped off, it could create a noise which could spook the deer. Thus, it is vital to follow the instructions and spray the correct amount. Also, a slight change in the formula could go a long way in providing convenience to the customers by reducing the stickiness.
Bottom Line
The Nose Jammer Natural Scent-Masking Aerosol Field Spray is one of the best options to mask your scent. It is an aerosol and therefore, the air carries the droplets very well. It penetrates the noses of game animals, effectively jamming their sense of smell. It is also very easy to keep handy in case you think the deer may be on to you.
Editor's Pick:
Conquest Scents EverCalm Scent Stick
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers seemed to be satisfied with its powerful scent. Hunters reported that a single pack was enough for their couple of hunts, and its smell lasts for a very long time. They also appreciated its smell, which literally mimics the animal’s natural resting zones. The overall feedback was more on the positive side.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This cover scent comes in the form of a wax stick that is to be applied onto your lower pants, boots, and nearby trees or bushes. This semi-solid wax sits on the area where it is applied and doesn’t create a mess that sprays usually do.
This scent includes a smell similar to that of deer’s habitat, and its intensity is strong enough to attract your game for almost two days.
Bottom Line
From spill-free wax to long-lasting smell, realistic bedding area odor, and convenient application, Conquest EverClam Stick has everything that an effective cover scent should own. With its use, your hunting days will surely be more opportunistic and successful than ever.
Cover Scent Tips, Tricks, and Hacks For Successful Use
These days, when hunting awareness spreads more rapidly, and advanced hunting equipment is being introduced to the public, a cover scent is not unknown to any hunter. Every person accompanies this useful product on a hunting trip. But then, why do some individuals return home with empty hands?
They often make mistakes while using it. They should pay heed to the tricks and tips regarding its way of application and other factors that influence its credibility. Let’s see how we can make the most of cover scents.
Apply it Wisely
Spray the scent or rub the wax on your boots, tree trunks, branches, blinds, and bottom of the pants. Don’t spray it carelessly, or else air will blow it away.
Choose the Right Smell
Select smells that go appropriately with the surroundings. Use pine and acorn-flavored scents when the selected hunting spot lies around dense trees. Moreover, pick scents that smell like animal bedding so that deer feel safe while coming nearer.
Stay Unscented
Your clothes and boots should also be scent-free. Carbon clothing is ideal for preventing the spread of human scent.
Food can also cost you the loss of a game. Thus, it’s necessary to avoid eating foods that emit a strong aroma.
Types of Cover Scent
There are different types of cover scents available on the market today. Some are meant to attract curious deer, while others are meant to imitate food like apples or corn. On the other hand, some scents are made from buck and doe pee. They act as sexual attractants around the rut. The most popular cover scents are:
Earth Cover Scent
These cover scents smell like fresh dirt. They are ideal for use in any hunting ground as dirt is everywhere – in farmlands, swamps, fields, woods, and ridges. They are powerful products that can effectively mask human odor.
Deer Urine
These are not only cover scents but can also be used to attract other deer. By using the correct deer scent in the appropriate season, you can trick a deer into believing that another deer has recently been there or is still there.
Natural Compounds
Many cover scents are made by using natural compounds such as pine, balsam fir, hemlock, vanillin, spruce, cedar, and acorn. These compounds are pure, fresh oils collected from trees and are very effective in hiding the scent of a human. These types of scents are also very easy on clothes.
Fox Odor Mask
Hunters find fox cover scents very effective. They prove to be very valuable in getting close to deer, elk, moose, bear, and other game animals. These cover scents are made from fox urine and have a strong, musky odor.
Wildlife Research Gold 1 Gallon Re-Filler Combo Scent Killer
Pros and Cons of Using Cover Scent
Deer rely greatly on their powerful sense of smell. Therefore, a good cover scent is important to ensure a successful hunt.
Pros
- Helps hunters get close to the deer undetected
- Makes hunters blend into any outdoor environment
- Some scents can be used to draw game to your location
- Allows you to set up in any area without repelling wildlife
Cons
- Some products have a very potent smell which might never come off your clothes
- Some leave behind a sticky residue
- Using the wrong scent could repel game from your vicinity
Conclusion
By now, you should have a clear idea of what cover scents are, how they work, and what best products are to help you effectively mask body odor. We hope that after reading this article, you will be ready to buy a product that will be a powerful addition to your hunting equipment and will help your hunts become more successful.
People Also Ask
People fond of or new to deer hunting often look for detailed answers to some questions. Therefore, we dedicated this section to their questions and did our best to answer them. Maybe this section includes something that can be of any help to you too.
Does Scent Blocker Spray Really Work?
Yes, it helps a lot. A scent blocker spray intends to diminish human odor to such an extent that it becomes unperceivable by deer and other game animals. But, at times, a scent blocker alone cannot be enough for this task. In that case, one must use it in combination with scent-free attire and boots.
How Important is Scent While Deer Hunting?
Deer is an animal whose nose receptors are a hundred times more sensitive than humans. Thus, we must make sure not to be detected by deer, which gives rise to the use of cover scents. Cover scents subdue human odor and leave a smell that significantly replicates that of animal bedding areas. In this way, deer don’t hesitate to come closer to the hunter.
How Long Does Your Scent Stay in the Woods?
The duration of stay of scent in the woods depends on some factors, including rain and smell intensity. For most scents, it is assumed to be two or three days. In case of heavy downpours and relentless winds, the scent disappears very fast. Wax scents stay longer than liquid sprays.
What Does Cover Scent Smell Like?
Cover scents come in different smells. Some scents are made to smell like a deer bedding area. Some scents incorporate the odor of pines, acorn, raccoon, and apple. You will also find scents having a urine-like smell. Each of these cover scents plays its part in keeping the deer at peace.
Is Cover Scent Easy to Wash off?
Cover Scents are not that easy to wash off. Just because of this, it is suggested not to use scents having doe urine smell on your clothes or any body part. Rainfall can remove the scent from objects like trees, blinds, and bushes. As for clothes, detergent, along with baking soda, can help in washing off the scent.
