First Thoughts on the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure
The Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure, a product from Tink’s, promises to be a game-changer for deer hunters. This lure, now available in a gel form, aims to attract bucks during the rut by mimicking the scent of a doe in estrous. This innovative formula claims to overcome common issues like rain wash-off and wind desiccation, problems that have plagued liquid lures for years.
As a seasoned hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless attractants come and go. I’ve learned the hard way that some lures overpromise and underdeliver. My primary goal with the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure review is to determine if this product lives up to the hype and provides a tangible advantage in the field.
The first thing I noticed was the gel consistency. Compared to the watery formulas I’m used to, this seemed promising in terms of longevity and scent dispersal. The packaging also seemed solid, preventing accidental leakage and preserving the freshness of the lure. Initial build quality felt robust, hinting at a well-designed product.
I considered other doe estrous lures, but the gel formulation of Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure swayed my decision. Competitors like Wildlife Research Center’s Golden Estrus and Code Blue’s Standing Estrous are reliable, but they’re liquids, which I’ve found to be less effective in adverse weather. I also considered synthetic options, but I generally prefer natural scents for a more authentic effect.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The gel formula and promise of weather resistance were appealing, but I’ve been burned before. I was eager to see how it would perform in a real hunting scenario.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure to the test during the peak of the rut in central Texas. I applied it to several overhanging limbs near a well-traveled deer crossing, using the recommended application method. The weather was damp, with a light drizzle throughout the day, which created a perfect test environment for the gel’s claimed water resistance.
The gel was surprisingly easy to apply, adhering well to the branches. The scent was noticeable, a musky, slightly sweet aroma that I recognized as a natural doe estrous scent. After setting up my stand, I waited patiently. Within a couple of hours, I observed increased deer activity in the area, including a young buck that seemed particularly interested in the scent. While it didn’t result in a harvest that day, the increased activity was definitely a positive sign.
The gel held up remarkably well against the drizzle. The scent seemed to persist, unlike my past experience with liquid lures that tend to wash away quickly in the rain. There was no significant learning curve involved in using this product; it was straightforward and user-friendly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure throughout the rutting season, I’m impressed with its reliability. It continued to attract deer and hold its scent even after multiple rainfalls. The gel did not dry out or become less effective over time, which is a significant advantage over other lures I’ve used.
There were minimal signs of wear and tear on the product itself. The container remained sealed, preventing any unwanted leaks or spills. I found the gel to be easy to clean and remove from my hands or clothing, unlike some sticky liquid attractants.
Compared to my previous experiences with liquid doe estrous lures, the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure performed exceptionally well. It noticeably outperformed liquid lures in terms of scent longevity and weather resistance. I also found that it seemed to draw in more mature bucks than synthetic scents I’ve tested.
Breaking Down the Features of Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure
Specifications
- The Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure is formulated from natural doe estrous urine collected from live whitetail does during their estrous cycle. This natural origin is key to its effectiveness in mimicking the scent of a receptive doe.
- The lure is now offered in a gel form. This innovative presentation prevents rain wash-off and wind desiccation, ensuring long-lasting scent dispersal.
- Recommended application is on overhanging limbs, allowing for the scent to drift naturally with the wind. This mimics the natural behavior of a doe in estrous, increasing the realism and effectiveness of the lure.
- The product is designed for use during the rutting season. Its specific formulation targets the peak breeding period of whitetail deer.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the lure’s performance and ability to attract deer. The natural doe estrous urine provides an authentic scent profile. The gel form extends the duration of the scent in various weather conditions. Correct application maximizes its reach and realism.
Performance & Functionality
The Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure performs its job effectively, attracting bucks during the rut. The gel formulation maintains scent integrity better than liquid alternatives, offering a clear advantage.
The strength of this product lies in its longevity and weather resistance. A slight weakness could be its limited scent range compared to some aerosol attractants. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable increase in deer activity.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is satisfactory. The container is durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting.
The gel is easy to handle and apply. The simplicity of application reduces the learning curve, making it accessible to hunters of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure is designed to last throughout the hunting season with proper storage. The gel form prevents premature drying or degradation.
Minimal maintenance is required. Simply ensure the container is sealed properly after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
No specific accessories come with the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure. The product is primarily used as a standalone attractant.
The lure is compatible with scent dispersal systems. It can be used with scent wicks or other devices to further enhance its range and effectiveness.
Pros and Cons of Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure
Pros
- Long-lasting scent due to the gel formulation. Less re-application needed.
- Weather-resistant, effective even in rain and wind. Consistent performance in varying conditions.
- Made with natural doe estrous urine for authentic scent. Increases the chance of attracting mature bucks.
- Easy to apply, even in difficult terrain. Simple and user-friendly design.
- Noticeable increase in deer activity, improving hunting success. Tangible results in the field.
Cons
- Limited scent range compared to aerosol alternatives. May require multiple application points.
- Scent can be too strong if applied improperly. Needs careful and controlled application.
Who Should Buy Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure?
This product is perfect for deer hunters who prioritize natural scents and need a reliable attractant that can withstand various weather conditions. Experienced hunters will appreciate its performance and consistency. Beginner hunters will find it easy to use and effective in improving their chances of success.
Hunters looking for long-range scent dispersal might want to consider aerosol products instead. Those who prefer entirely synthetic scents might not find this product appealing.
A scent drag or scent wick can enhance the lure’s effectiveness. A reliable pair of gloves is also recommended to prevent scent contamination.
Conclusion on Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure
Overall, the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure is an effective and reliable deer attractant that delivers on its promises. The gel formulation is a significant improvement over traditional liquid lures, offering enhanced longevity and weather resistance.
The price of $7.49 is justified by its performance and effectiveness. It offers a good value proposition for hunters seeking a natural and dependable doe estrous lure.
I would definitely recommend the Tinks #69 Doe-In-Rut Lure to any deer hunter looking to increase their chances of success during the rut. Give it a try and experience the difference a quality lure can make!