First Thoughts on the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure promises to be a potent attractant for trappers targeting these wily predators. Hawbakers is a name synonymous with quality in the trapping world, and their lures are often whispered about amongst seasoned professionals. This lure, a blend of top-quality castors, glands, plant oils, and “other intoxicating ingredients,” piqued my interest because I was looking for a lure with a strong, complex scent profile that could cut through the often-harsh conditions of late-season trapping.
My property has been plagued by an increasing coyote population impacting the local deer herd. I was hoping this lure would give me an edge in thinning their numbers. Upon receiving the 1oz bottle, the dark, almost viscous liquid hinted at the concentrated power within. The initial aroma was a complex blend of musky and sweet, with a distinct earthy undertone, immediately signaling a lure designed for serious business.
I’ve used several commercially available fox and coyote lures in the past, including some from Minnesota Trapline Products and Caven’s Lures. I chose the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure because of the Hawbakers reputation for quality and the description of the ingredients. It suggested a more potent and long-lasting attractant than the more generic lures I had tried before. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to put it to the test, but also aware that scent lures can be highly variable in their effectiveness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure was in a wooded area bordering a large agricultural field. I targeted a known coyote travel route. I utilized dirt hole sets, placing a small amount of lure on a cotton ball and positioning it deep within the hole.
The weather was cold and damp, with a light snowfall. This is precisely the kind of challenging condition where a strong, reliable lure is essential. I was impressed by how the scent of the Hawbakers lure persisted despite the moisture and cold.
The lure was easy to apply using a small stick to transfer it to the cotton ball. After 48 hours, I checked the sets, and to my surprise, one of the dirt holes had been heavily investigated by a large coyote. It had dug around the set but hadn’t committed to the trap. This indicated a strong initial attraction, but also a level of caution from the animal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After weeks of use, the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure continued to produce consistent interest from both foxes and coyotes. I rotated the lure between different sets and locations on my property. I even experimented with using it as a flagging scent on nearby bushes.
The lure’s durability has been impressive. The scent remains potent even after exposure to rain and snow. There has been no noticeable degradation or change in its aroma.
Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. Once applied, the lure requires no further attention. Compared to some other lures I’ve used that quickly fade or wash away, the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure outperforms them significantly. This extends the effective life of each set.
Breaking Down the Features of Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure
Specifications
- Ingredients: The lure contains top-quality castors, glands, plant oils, and other proprietary ingredients. This creates a complex, multi-layered scent profile that is appealing to both foxes and coyotes.
- Size: The lure is sold in a 1oz bottle (LB19 1OZ). This provides a sufficient quantity for several sets and seasons of trapping.
- Consistency: The lure has a thick, viscous consistency. This helps it adhere to surfaces and resist washing away in wet conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the lure’s effectiveness. The quality of the ingredients ensures a potent and long-lasting scent. The consistency ensures it stays where you put it.
Performance & Functionality
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure performs its job exceedingly well. It attracts both foxes and coyotes, prompting them to investigate sets. Its effectiveness has been consistent across various weather conditions.
The lure’s strength is its complex scent profile. This appears to pique the curiosity of target animals. A potential weakness is that highly pressured animals may approach with caution, as observed in my initial test.
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and effective attractant, consistently drawing the attention of target animals.
Design & Ergonomics
The lure comes in a simple, functional bottle. It is easy to dispense small amounts using a stick or swab.
The lure’s thick consistency is ideal for application and longevity. There is no learning curve associated with using the product.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure appears to have a long shelf life if stored properly (cool, dark place). I anticipate that a single bottle will last for multiple trapping seasons.
No maintenance is required beyond proper storage. It is a set-and-forget product.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included with the lure itself. However, trappers often pair scent lures with other attractants, such as urine or visual aids.
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure is compatible with various trapping techniques and set designs. It can be used in dirt holes, scent posts, or as a flagging scent. The versatility allows trappers to tailor its use to their specific needs and conditions.
Pros and Cons of Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure
Pros
- Potent and Complex Scent: The lure’s unique blend of ingredients creates a strong, long-lasting aroma that is highly attractive to foxes and coyotes.
- Excellent Longevity: The thick consistency and quality ingredients ensure that the lure persists in the field, even in challenging weather conditions.
- Versatile Application: The lure can be used in various trapping sets and techniques, making it adaptable to different environments and trapping styles.
- Reputable Brand: Hawbakers is a trusted name in the trapping industry, known for producing high-quality lures and trapping supplies.
- Cost-Effective: At $9.99, the lure offers excellent value for its effectiveness and longevity.
Cons
- Strong Scent May Cause Caution: Highly pressured animals may approach sets cautiously due to the lure’s potent aroma.
- Requires Careful Application: Overuse of the lure can be counterproductive, potentially alarming target animals.
Who Should Buy Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure?
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure is perfect for trappers targeting foxes and coyotes, especially those seeking a potent and reliable attractant for challenging conditions. It is also ideal for trappers who value quality and longevity in their trapping supplies.
Trappers who are new to using scent lures or who primarily target pressured animals might want to start with a milder lure or experiment with different application techniques. A complementary urine scent could also help in these situations.
Must-have accessories include cotton balls for application, a small trowel for dirt hole sets, and scent-proof gloves to avoid contaminating the lure with human scent.
Conclusion on Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure
The Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure is a highly effective and reliable attractant for foxes and coyotes. Its potent scent, excellent longevity, and versatile application make it a valuable addition to any trapper’s arsenal.
The price of $9.99 is more than justified by the lure’s performance and the quality of its ingredients. It offers a significant advantage over cheaper, less effective lures.
I would definitely recommend the Hawbakers Fox & Coyote 4 Lure to any trapper looking to improve their success rate and target these challenging predators. Add this potent lure to your trapping arsenal and experience the difference a quality attractant can make.