Raccoon Proof Deer Feeder (Best Method We’ve Tested)

Raccoon proof deer feeder that actually works—this is the best method we’ve tested to keep raccoons out of your deer feeder using a proven PVC pipe and Vaseline setup. If you’ve ever dealt with a raccoon problem at your deer feeder, you already know how frustrating it is. Raccoons are one of the biggest threats to any feeding setup, climbing feeder legs, draining your corn overnight, and wasting valuable deer feed. In this video, we show how to raccoon proof a deer feeder using a method that finally solved the problem after testing multiple designs. If you’re searching for how to keep raccoons out of your deer feeder or how to protect your deer feeder from raccoons, this build gives you a real solution. This DIY raccoon proof deer feeder uses a smooth 6" PVC pipe system combined with Vaseline to create a slick, anti-climb barrier that raccoons simply cannot grip. Unlike traditional raccoon proof feeder designs that rely on spinning pipes or obstacles, this method removes stability entirely. The result is a feeder leg modification that prevents raccoons from even getting their back legs off the ground. We cut grooves in the 6" PVC pipe, used ratchet straps to suspend it, and then rubbed vaseline from the top of the pipe to the bottom. If you’ve ever wondered “can raccoons climb 6" PVC pipe?” or “how do I stop raccoons from climbing deer feeder legs?”—this test answers those questions in real-world conditions. We’ve tested several raccoon proof feeder designs including corrugated pipe, bird spikes, and other DIY deer feeder hacks, but this is by far the most effective method we’ve used. Over the course of this test, we saw zero raccoons successfully climb the feeder. Not one raccoon made it to the spout. This isn’t theory—this is a proven raccoon proof feeder solution based on actual deer feeder setup and real-world results. Over the full test, raccoons didn’t just fail to reach the feeder—they barely committed to the climb. Most would walk up, touch the slick PVC, hesitate, and bail. We tested on a Boss Buck gravity feeder, but this design will work with any 3 or 4 legged gravity feeder including Moultrie deer feeders, Treeline deer feeders, Field & Stream deer feeders, Game Winner deer feeders, and Banks Outdoors deer feeders. Beyond just stopping raccoons, this setup plays a major role in deer feed waste prevention. When raccoons take over a feeder, it not only costs money, but it can reduce deer activity and disrupt your entire whitetail deer feeding strategy. Protecting your feeder means more feed goes to deer, improving overall attraction and helping you get more consistent movement on your property. This method also applies beyond deer hunting. If you’re dealing with nuisance raccoons in other situations—like trying to raccoon proof a bird feeder, stop raccoons from climbing poles, or solve general backyard wildlife problems—this same smooth pipe concept can be extremely effective. It’s a simple, affordable DIY hunting project that solves a problem many hunters and land managers face every season. If you’ve been looking for the best raccoon proof deer feeder method, this is the most effective design we’ve tested so far. From protecting your investment to improving your deer feeder setup, small changes like this can make a huge difference. This build is simple and cost-effective, typically requiring a section of 6" smooth PVC pipe for each leg, a small amount of Vaseline, and basic tools most hunters already have on hand. Installation is quick, but the impact is immediate. The reason it works comes down to behavior—raccoons rely on grip and leverage to climb, and this setup eliminates both. The slick surface prevents traction, and the larger diameter pipe removes their ability to wrap and stabilize. This method works best on standard tripod or gravity feeder setups and may not be ideal in areas with heavy hog pressure. This is part of our ongoing raccoon proof deer feeder series where we’re testing different methods to find what actually works. What’s the best solution you’ve found to keep raccoons off your feeder, and what should we test next? Mismatched Camo is a whitetail hunting channel focused on deer feed tests, hunting gear experiments, and real-world hunting challenges. On Mismatched Camo you’ll see deer feed face-offs, raccoon proof deer feeder builds, trail camera and hunting gear experiments, and practical strategies for attracting, growing, and hunting bigger whitetails. Results may vary… take our advice at your own risk. This video was produced by Ugly Mug Creative — an agency built for the ones doing the real work. Fueled by long nights, early mornings, and more coffee than we’d like to admit, we focus on what matters: results. Ditch the suits. Trash the fluff. Ugly Mug Creative was built by hardworking underdogs who care more about the quality finished product than looking pretty in a mirror.