First Thoughts on the Deer Co-cain Mix™
The Deer Co-cain Mix™, from an unspecified manufacturer, promises to be a “habit forming powder concentrate” that sends deer into a frenzy. For just $7.49, it’s a tempting gamble for anyone looking to improve their hunting success or simply observe deer behavior. I was initially skeptical but intrigued by the bold claim of creating a powerful attractant based on calcium and sodium.
My primary interest in the Deer Co-cain Mix™ stems from wanting a reliable and cost-effective way to draw deer into a specific area on my property. I have been experimenting with various attractants for years, some with limited success, others proving too expensive for regular use. The promise of a highly active mix that reacts with moisture to release attractant vapors seemed like a novel approach, potentially more effective than traditional corn or salt licks.
Upon receiving the 6.5lb bag, my initial impression was that it seemed like a relatively standard powder attractant. The bag was simple, lacking any elaborate packaging or excessive marketing fluff. My thoughts centered on hoping that the ingredients lived up to the promises made.
I’ve used products like Cabela’s Deer Cane and various generic salt licks in the past. Those rely heavily on a consistent food source or concentrated salt content. The Deer Co-cain Mix™ seemed potentially superior due to its focus on releasing vapors, theorizing that deer could be attracted from further distances.
My first impression was a mix of cautious optimism and curiosity. The price was certainly right, and the claims were intriguing enough to warrant a thorough real-world test. If this stuff works as advertised, it could be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Deer Co-cain Mix™ to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Deer Co-cain Mix™ in a wooded area on my property known to be frequented by deer, but not consistently. I chose a location near a game trail, a natural water source, and a bedding area, hoping to maximize the chances of attracting deer. The weather was slightly damp, which theoretically should enhance the vapor-releasing effect.
The application was straightforward: I simply poured the powder concentrate onto a cleared patch of ground. The mix immediately reacted with the moisture in the soil, releasing a noticeable, slightly mineral-like odor. There wasn’t any immediate deer activity, which was expected, so I set up a trail camera to monitor the site.
Initially, there was an abundance of small critters. Squirrels, rabbits, and even raccoons were investigating the site within hours. After two days, the first deer showed up, cautiously approaching the treated area and licking the soil. It seemed particularly interested in the specific spot where the powder had been concentrated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous monitoring, the Deer Co-cain Mix™ proved to be a consistently effective attractant. Deer returned to the site daily, pawing at the ground, licking the soil, and even consuming some of the treated dirt. The activity remained high even after rainfall, suggesting the mix retains its effectiveness in wet conditions.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, as it is designed to be consumed and integrated into the environment. Maintenance is nonexistent: simply reapply as needed, depending on the level of deer activity and rainfall. Compared to using corn, which attracts unwanted animals and can spoil quickly, the Deer Co-cain Mix™ has proven to be a more reliable and targeted attractant.
Breaking Down the Features of Deer Co-cain Mix™
Specifications
The Deer Co-cain Mix™ comes in a 6.5lb bag of powder concentrate. It is designed as a “habit forming” attractant for deer, focusing on their natural desire for calcium and sodium. The mix reacts with moisture to release mineral vapors. It promotes licking, pawing, urination, and consumption of the treated soil.
The 6.5lb bag size offers a good balance between quantity and portability. Its focus on calcium and sodium addresses a key nutritional need for deer, especially during antler growth and lactation. The vapor-releasing action is * critical *, as it theoretically expands the range of attraction. The behavioral changes induced by the mix (licking, pawing) are indicators of its effectiveness and help to create a long-lasting attractant site.
Performance & Functionality
The Deer Co-cain Mix™ performs effectively as an attractant. Deer are drawn to the treated area and exhibit behaviors that indicate they are benefiting from the minerals. Its main strength is its ability to consistently draw deer to a specific location over an extended period.
A potential weakness is its initial reliance on moisture to activate; in extremely dry conditions, it might require artificial watering to maximize its effectiveness. However, even with minimal moisture, it still attracted deer. The product largely meets expectations, providing a simple and effective way to attract deer without the drawbacks of traditional food-based attractants.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward: a powder concentrate packaged in a durable bag. The mix itself is easy to handle and apply. There’s no complex setup or specialized equipment needed.
It is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to create an attractant site. The bag is easy to open and reseal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Deer Co-cain Mix™ itself doesn’t require any special maintenance. Its longevity depends on the rate of consumption by deer and the frequency of rainfall. Reapplication is necessary as the treated soil is depleted.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories that come with the Deer Co-cain Mix™. It is designed to be used as a standalone product. The effectiveness can be enhanced by strategically placing it near existing game trails, water sources, or bedding areas.
It is also compatible with trail cameras, allowing users to monitor deer activity at the attractant site. While there are no direct modifications to the Deer Co-cain Mix™ itself, you can combine it with other attractants like apple scent or molasses to create a unique blend.
Pros and Cons of Deer Co-cain Mix™
Pros
- Attracts deer consistently over extended periods.
- Easy to use, requiring minimal setup and maintenance.
- Cost-effective compared to other attractants.
- Targets a key nutritional need (calcium and sodium).
- Vapor-releasing action expands the range of attraction.
Cons
- Requires moisture to activate effectively.
- Attracts other animals besides deer, such as raccoons and squirrels.
Who Should Buy Deer Co-cain Mix™?
Perfect for hunters looking to establish consistent bait sites, wildlife enthusiasts wanting to observe deer behavior, and property owners seeking to manage deer populations. It is an ideal product for anyone wanting to attract deer without the mess and spoilage associated with food-based attractants.
This product might not be suitable for areas with extremely low deer populations or locations where attracting wildlife is prohibited. Also, those looking for an instant, guaranteed solution may be disappointed, as the effectiveness of any attractant depends on various environmental factors. There are no must-have accessories, but a trail camera is highly recommended to monitor deer activity and optimize placement.
Conclusion on Deer Co-cain Mix™
The Deer Co-cain Mix™ offers a compelling value proposition. It is a simple, cost-effective, and consistently effective deer attractant. At $7.49 for a 6.5lb bag, the price is certainly justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to attract deer, improve their hunting success, or simply observe wildlife. For the price, it’s a low-risk, high-reward investment. Give the Deer Co-cain Mix™ a try and see the results for yourself!