Opinions, observations, recommendations, etc about having mineral and/or salt blocks at feeder locations. Do deer actually use them?

Yes they do when they need them.

Personally, I have never had any success with them. I’ve had one sitting on camera for the last three months untouched. Same thing at other leases over the years.

Coons love them.

A lot of activity on salt and TS mineral block. Had camera on site in summer and was surprised because because of a lack of earlier success. $12 for both.

This ^^^^^

My experience has always been that deer prefer them more in the warmer months. An old timer once told me that's because the high salt intake helps them fight off flies and ticks, but I have no science to back up such a claim. I could also seem them as a way to increase mineral intake.

If the rancher keeps out salt and minerals for his livestock, then you're already covered. Also, if you feed protein, that typically has all of the trace minerals built into it.

I keep one near each protein feeder and watch the deer lick them often.

Has anyone ever tried using peanut butter? I watched a video where they mounted the jar on a tree and cut the bottom out of it.