How to Make an Artificial Mineral Lick to Attract Deer

Making an artificial mineral lick is a great way to help promote antler growth in deer during the growing season. Buy a mineral lick that contains as many minerals and vitamins as possible. Look for those with added flavors that attract deer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Mineral mix
• Water
• Bucket
• Shovel

1. Buy a mix of minerals and salt made specifically for deer at your local sporting goods or farm supply store. A good mineral mix contains salt, calcium, phosphate, Vitamins C, D and E plus other additives that attract the deer.
2. Find an area that is well traveled by the deer. This should be on the ground in a deer trail area. Clear the grass, twigs and other debris from the area on the ground. Use a shovel to work up the ground.
3. Mix the mineral mixture you purchased following the directions on the package. The directions may tell you to either pour a measured amount into a bucket of water and mix, or it may tell you to spread on the ground and then cover with water.
4. Pour almost all the mixture onto the ground you have worked up, and cover with some ground if desired. The mineral soaks into the surface level of the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Sprinkle a little of the mixture, with or without the water, on a nearby stump or log. This helps the deer find the lick quicker.
• Check the local and state laws before creating an artificial mineral lick. Some states don't allow licks or have restrictions on them.

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