As an outdoor writer and avid hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the frustration of meticulously preparing a food plot electric fence, only to have it ravaged by deer (or other unwelcome guests) before the season even begins. Protecting your hard work – and your investment – is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about food plot fences, from choosing the right system like Deer Buster fence options to effective deer repellents, ensuring your food plot thrives and attracts the wildlife you’re targeting. We’ll cover everything from installation to maintenance, and even explore options like the popular Show Stopper food plot systems.
Why Electric Fencing is Essential for Food Plots
Creating a successful food plot isn’t just about planting seeds; it’s about protecting those seeds and the resulting growth. Deer, while the animals we often hope to attract, can decimate a young plot before it has a chance to mature. Other animals like turkeys, rabbits, and even bears can also cause significant damage. An electric fence for deer food plots provides a psychological barrier, deterring animals without causing serious harm. It’s a far more effective and humane solution than lethal control in many situations. According to the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, responsible wildlife management is a key component of ethical outdoor recreation.
The Benefits Beyond Deer Control
While deer are the primary concern, a well-maintained food plot fence offers several additional benefits:
- Reduced Crop Damage: Protects against a wider range of animals, maximizing yield.
- Controlled Access: Allows you to manage which animals access the plot, potentially favoring specific species.
- Extended Growing Season: Keeps animals out during critical growth stages.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to repeatedly replanting damaged plots, a fence is a one-time investment that pays for itself.
Choosing the Right Food Plot Fence System
The market offers a variety of deer busters fencing systems. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:
Woven Wire vs. Polywire/Polytape
Woven wire fences, like those offered by Deer Buster fence reviews consistently praise for their durability, provide a physical barrier in addition to the electric shock. They are more expensive upfront but offer long-term reliability. Polywire and polytape are more affordable, lighter, and easier to install, but they rely solely on the psychological deterrent of the electric shock. Polytape is more visible, which can be beneficial for deterring birds and other animals. The USDA Forest Service recommends considering the specific animal pressures in your area when choosing a fencing material.
Popular Brands: Deer Buster, Premier One, and Show Stopper
Several brands stand out in the food plot fence market:
- Deer Buster Fence: Known for its heavy-duty woven wire and complete kits. Often considered a premium option.
- Premier One Deer Fence: Offers a range of options, including electric netting and polywire systems, catering to various budgets and needs.
- Show Stopper Food Plot: Specializes in high-tensile wire systems designed for maximum deer deterrence. The Show Stopper food plot system is often favored for larger plots and areas with high deer pressure.
Fence Height and Strand Configuration
The height of your fence and the number of strands are crucial. For deer, a minimum height of 8 feet is recommended. More strands (typically 5-7) increase the effectiveness of the shock and make it more difficult for deer to jump over or crawl under. Consider staggering the height of the strands to deter animals of different sizes.
Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a food plot electric fence requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a general guide:
- Planning: Map out your plot and determine the fence perimeter.
- Post Installation: Space posts appropriately (typically 8-12 feet apart) and ensure they are securely anchored. Corner posts should be particularly sturdy.
- Wire/Tape Installation: Attach the wire or tape to the posts using insulators.
- Energizer Connection: Connect the energizer to the fence wire and a grounding rod.
- Testing: Use a fence tester to ensure the fence is delivering an adequate shock.
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific fence system. Resources like REI Expert Advice offer detailed guides on electric fence installation.
Maintaining Your Food Plot Fence
A deer busters fence isn’t a “set it and forget it” solution. Regular maintenance is essential:
- Vegetation Control: Keep vegetation from growing into the fence, as this can ground the electricity.
- Wire Tension: Check and adjust wire tension regularly, especially with polywire/polytape systems.
- Energizer Check: Ensure the energizer is functioning correctly and has sufficient battery power.
- Grounding Rod: Verify the grounding rod is still effectively grounded.
- Damage Repair: Promptly repair any damage to the fence.
Beyond the Fence: Deer Repellents
While an electric fence is a powerful deterrent, combining it with deer repellents can provide an extra layer of protection. Here’s a look at some popular options:
Commercial Repellents: Deer Away and Liquid Fence
Deer Away Big Game Repellent and Liquid Fence Turkey Repellent are two widely used commercial repellents. They work by creating an unpleasant taste or odor that deters deer. These repellents typically need to be reapplied after rain or heavy dew. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Natural Repellents: Miller Hot Sauce and Garlic
Some hunters prefer natural repellents like Miller Hot Sauce Animal Repellent (a cayenne pepper-based spray) or garlic sprays. These can be effective, but they often require more frequent application than commercial repellents. Be mindful of potential impacts on other wildlife when using repellents.
Repellents for Soybeans and Other Crops
Protecting specific crops like soybeans requires targeted repellents. Look for products specifically formulated for soybeans or other sensitive plants. Consider rotating repellents to prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single scent or taste. A deer repellent for soybeans should be applied according to the product label, focusing on new growth.
Troubleshooting Common Fence Issues
Even with careful installation, you may encounter problems. Here are some common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Fence not delivering a shock | Check energizer power, grounding rod connection, wire connections, and for vegetation grounding the fence. |
| Deer jumping over the fence | Increase fence height, add more strands, or use a more visible tape. |
| Fence wire sagging | Tighten the wire or add additional support posts. |
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Food Plot Investment
Investing in a food plot electric fence is a smart move for any serious hunter or land manager. By choosing the right system, installing it correctly, and maintaining it diligently, you can protect your investment and ensure your food plot thrives. Remember to supplement your fence with deer repellents for added protection. And always prioritize responsible wildlife management practices, as outlined by organizations like the National Park Service (https://www.nps.gov/). For more information on food plot design and management, check out my article on Optimizing Food Plot Placement for Maximum Deer Attraction. Happy hunting!