A Guide to Selecting Decoys: Top Tips for Successful Hunting

How to Select Decoys

Decoys are an essential part of any hunting setup, helping to attract game by mimicking the appearance of real animals. Understanding duck decoy basics is crucial for novice hunters, as it covers the overwhelming variety of decoys available and offers guidance on selecting the appropriate decoys based on hunting style and duck species. Whether you’re hunting waterfowl, upland birds, or other types of game, decoys can make all the difference in ensuring your success in the field. Choosing the right decoys, however, can be overwhelming with the wide variety of options available. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing duck decoys and selecting decoys, helping you make the right choice for your hunting style and the species you’re targeting.

1. Types of Decoys

Different types of decoys are suited for different hunting situations and species. Understanding the various options will help you select the most effective decoys for your hunt.

Waterfowl Decoys

• Best For: Ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. The best duck decoys are essential for duck hunters to attract these birds effectively by selecting the right decoys for successful hunting.

• Types: Waterfowl decoys can be used for both land and water setups. There are floating decoys for use on water, and field decoys designed for dry land. Selecting the right duck decoy is crucial for hunting success.

• Floating Decoys: Used in ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes. These decoys are buoyant and mimic the motion of waterfowl on the water’s surface.

• Field Decoys: Typically used for geese or ducks on dry land. These decoys are often larger and more stable for standing in fields, providing visual appeal from a distance.

Turkey Decoys

• Best For: Turkey hunting.

• Types: These decoys are typically more mobile than waterfowl decoys.

  • Turkey Decoys: These decoys often come in different poses (feeding, strutting, etc.) to match the behavior of real turkeys. They can be used in a variety of hunting scenarios to lure both hens and gobblers.

   

Predator Decoys

• Best For: Coyotes, bobcats, and other predators.

• Types: Predator decoys are often more detailed and designed to simulate either prey animals or other predators.

  • Prey Decoys: Designed to attract predators by mimicking the look of small animals like rabbits or fawns.

  • Predator Decoys: Some decoys mimic the movement or appearance of rival predators, encouraging territorial behavior.

Big Game Decoys

• Best For: Deer, elk, or other large game.

• Types: These decoys are typically more rigid and detailed to replicate the appearance of larger animals.

  • Deer Decoys: Designed to attract bucks or does with specific postures, such as grazing or alert stances.

  • Elk Decoys: Large and highly visible, elk decoys are used for hunting elk in areas with wide-open views.

2. Materials of Decoys

The material your decoys are made from can affect their durability, realism, and ease of use in the field. Here are the most common materials used in hunting decoys:

Decoy keels play a crucial role in the setup and maintenance of your hunting spreads. Solid keels provide stability and are easier to set up in shallow waters, while hollow keels are lighter and more suitable for deeper water environments. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right decoy keel for your specific hunting conditions. Additionally, keel line rigs are essential for securing your decoys in various water depths, making the setup process more efficient and practical.

Plastic Decoys

• Best For: Durability and ease of use.

• Advantages: Plastic decoys are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. They can handle rough conditions and are typically long-lasting.

• Disadvantages: Some plastic decoys may not appear as realistic as other options, especially under close inspection. They can also be prone to damage if exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Foam Filled Decoys

• Best For: Realistic appearance and durability.

• Advantages: Foam filled decoys tend to be more durable than hollow plastic decoys and often provide a more lifelike appearance due to their larger size. They will also be more resistant to sinking than traditional hollow plastic decoys.

• Disadvantages: Foam filled decoys tend to be heavier than standard plastic decoys, making them harder to transport.

Wooden Decoys

• Best For: Collectors or highly realistic hunting setups.

• Advantages: Wooden decoys are often handcrafted and provide an extremely realistic look. They are highly durable and stand out in terms of aesthetics.

• Disadvantages: They can be heavy, making them harder to transport. Wooden decoys are typically more expensive than plastic or foam filled options.

Inflatable Decoys

• Best For: Lightweight, portable setups.

• Advantages: Inflatable decoys are extremely lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for hunters who need to move quickly.

• Disadvantages: Inflatable decoys are more susceptible to damage from sharp objects or rough terrain and may require more maintenance.

Fabric Decoys

• Best For: Lightweight and collapsible storage.

• Advantages: Fabric decoys are often lightweight and easy to pack down, making them great for hunters who need compact options for travel.

• Disadvantages: These decoys tend to be less durable than others and may not withstand harsh weather conditions as well as plastic or foam filled decoys.

3. Realism and Detail

The level of realism in a decoy is one of the most important factors in duck hunting, significantly enhancing the hunting experience. A decoy that accurately mimics the appearance and behavior of real animals will be much more effective than one that looks artificial or poorly crafted. Effective decoys play a crucial role in a hunter’s strategy by creating a realistic representation of ducks to lure in real ducks during expeditions.

Features to Look For

• Paint and Detailing: High-quality decoys often feature realistic paint schemes that replicate the colors and patterns of the target species. Look for decoys with intricate details, such as feather textures, eye features, and body shapes.

• Posture and Position: Decoys that mimic natural postures (such as feeding, standing, or resting) will attract more game than decoys that are static or poorly positioned.

• Motion: Some decoys come with built-in motion mechanisms or are designed to simulate movement naturally (such as floating decoys for waterfowl). Motion can significantly increase a decoy’s effectiveness, especially for species that rely on movement cues.

4. Decoy Placement

Proper decoy placement is just as important as selecting the right decoys. Even the most realistic decoys will fail to attract game if they are not positioned correctly.

Incorporating diver duck decoys alongside puddle duck decoys in your spread can attract a wider variety of species, enhancing your hunting strategy.

Placement Tips

• Waterfowl Hunting: In waterfowl hunting, position floating decoys in a natural-looking pattern, mimicking how waterfowl feed and rest. Create a landing zone in front of your blind where ducks and geese feel comfortable landing.

• Field Hunting: For field hunting, position decoys in feeding or resting patterns. Spread decoys in a loose, natural formation to mimic how birds typically feed.

• Big Game Hunting: For deer or elk, position decoys in an area with good visibility and at appropriate distances from the hunting spot. Make sure they are placed in a natural position, like grazing or standing alert.

• Predator Hunting: For predator hunting, place prey decoys in areas where predators are likely to approach, ensuring visibility while maintaining a safe distance from your position.

5. Number of Decoys

The number of decoys you use, such as a dozen decoys, will depend on the species you are hunting, the area you’re in, and how realistic you want your setup to be. More decoys often result in a more attractive spread, but it’s important not to overcrowd the area.

How Many Decoys Do You Need?

• Waterfowl: A typical setup for waterfowl hunting includes anywhere from 6 to 12 decoys, but some hunters use up to 30 or more in larger fields or when hunting geese.

• Big Game: When hunting deer or elk, 1 to 3 decoys can be enough to attract attention without overwhelming the animals. Always consider the size of the area and the species' natural behavior.

• Predator: For predators, one or two decoys can be sufficient, especially if you’re using a motion decoy to simulate movement.

6. Maintenance and Storage of Decoys

Caring for your decoys is crucial to keeping them in good condition and ensuring they last season after season.

Cleaning Decoys

• Waterfowl Decoys: Clean floating decoys after each hunt by removing dirt and debris with a soft brush or cloth. Make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent mold growth.

• Field Decoys: Wipe field decoys with a damp cloth to remove dust and mud. Store them in a dry place to avoid mold and fading.

Storage

• Storage Bags: Use storage bags to keep your decoys organized and prevent damage. Soft bags or cases can protect fragile decoys from breaking or cracking during transport.

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Store decoys in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme cold, to preserve their integrity and finish.

Conclusion

Choosing the right decoys for your hunt is a critical part of your success, whether you're hunting waterfowl, upland birds, predators, or big game. Understanding the different types of decoys, materials, and features will help you create the most effective setup for your hunting situation. From realism and motion to the number and placement of decoys, making the right decisions will increase your chances of drawing in game and making a successful shot.

FAQs

How many decoys do I need for waterfowl hunting?

For most waterfowl hunts, a spread of 6 to 12 duck decoys is sufficient. However, you can use more depending on the situation, such as in larger fields or when hunting geese.

What is the best material for waterfowl decoys?

Foam filled and plastic are popular materials for waterfowl decoys. Foam filled decoys tend to be more durable and realistic, while plastic decoys are lightweight and cost-effective.

Should I use motion decoys?

Yes, motion greatly enhances the realism of your decoy spread. Motion decoys, such as spinning wing decoys, are effective at attracting waterfowl by mimicking natural movements.

How do I store my decoys to keep them in good condition?

Store decoys in a cool, dry place, and use storage bags or cases to prevent damage. Keep them out of direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to maintain their appearance and functionality.

How do I clean my decoys after use?

Clean decoys by wiping them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.