How to Make Duck Decoys

Duck decoys are an integral part of duck hunting. They lure ducks into the water with their realistic look, especially when combined with a good duck call. You can buy decoys at sporting goods stores but this can get expensive over time. If you are a skilled wood carver, it still can take hours to make one realistic decoy. Cork is another option, but you still need carving skills. Since most people are not skilled carvers, a urethane foam decoy is an easier and faster option. Foam decoys are durable, easy to paint and are virtually unsinkable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Duck mold
• Mold extractor tool
• Two-part urethane foam
• Protective eye wear
• Waterproof gloves
• "C" clamps
• Long screws

1. Purchase an aluminum duck decoy mold from a sporting goods store or from an Internet source. Molds come in two pieces: the body and the head of the duck.

2. Wipe out the inside of the molds so there is no debris or dirt. Rub a light coating of car wax inside the mold. A liquid car wax works best. Get the wax into all the nooks and crevices and allow the wax to dry.

3. Put on your protective gear before mixing the foam. Follow the manufacturer's directions as you mix equal parts of the foam elements in a plastic container. Pour the foam into the mold and use several "c" clamps to hold the mold halves together. Tap the mold several times to make sure any air bubbles will float to the top.

4. Wait the time suggested by the manufacturer before removing the clamps from the mold. Use the mold extractor tool to remove the parts of the decoy from the mold forms.

5. Using the long screws, attach the head and keels to the appropriate parts of the decoy.

6. Paint your decoys with waterproof paint and seal with a waterproof sealant.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out the duck identification guide for pictures of feather patterns and head shapes for the most realistic decoys.
• Use protective gear when working with urethane foam.

References

• Duck Identification Guide

Resources

• Duck Decoy Molds