How To Establish An Effective Mineral Site

Similar to many things hunting related, the success you have implementing a mineral site can be determined before bringing any mineral into the woods. The old adage of ‘build it and they will come’ doesn’t always apply here. Yes, you will likely get some deer to visit any mineral site, but to have them visit consistently requires more preparation. There are a few things to consider before dropping that mineral anywhere in the woods. Clear Vegetation-

Clear Vegetation

Whether you’re putting mineral out before spring green up or after everything has leafed out, there will be some vegetation to work around. I like to clear an area with a 6-foot diameter around where I’ll be putting the mineral. This gives the deer plenty of space to access the mineral and makes for a cleaner picture if you’re putting a game camera near the site.  

Type Of Mineral

There are two main types of mineral out there these days – granular and brick form. Each have their benefits and drawbacks. You’ll want to select the style that best fits your situation.  

• Bricks are generally easier to work with as all you’ll need to do is place it in the middle of the freshly cleared site.
• Granular can be spread across the newly cleared area. I typically will use a rake and lightly work into the soil for an even distribution.

Location

You’ll want to pick a location near established deer travel routes. Sure, deer will likely find it if you put it anywhere, but to have a quality mineral site, staying near main travel routes is key. Be sure to not put it directly on the trail, but off to the side a few feet.

“It goes without saying, but be sure to review your states laws and regulations”

Trail Camera Placement

Lastly, if you’re going through the effort of establishing a mineral site, you’ll likely want to put up a trail camera at some point to view the rewards of your work! Be sure to identify a tree that will be suitable for a camera BEFORE preparing the site. I tend to pick a tree that is 4-6 feet away from the mineral site and allows the camera to face north. Check out our post on trail camera set ups!

Review Rules & Regulations

It goes without saying but be sure to review your states laws and regulations on attractants and baiting before putting out any mineral. The guidelines are different across each state and sometimes vary between counties.

If you’re looking to help your local deer herd and want to get some neat trail camera pictures along the way, establishing an effective mineral site is a great idea.