How to Set Duck Decoys

Setting up duck decoys can add another element to the thrill and excitement associated with duck hunting. For centuries, hunters have used duck decoys as a means to lure migratory ducks to points within firing range, and although the decoys they used were made of wood, the concept of duck decoys has remained the same. The only exception is that today's duck decoys are available in either cork, plastic, foam or wood, and are far more precisely sized and realistic than the early versions. If you have relied on sheer luck to get your ducks so far, it is time you learn how to set duck decoys to befuddle and lure those high-flying ducks to water--and make every shot count.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Duck decoys

1. Seek information on duck migration patterns. Different duck species fly in to roost at different places and times of the year. Ducks have been observed to be fewer in number during the start of a particular duck hunting season, but their numbers greatly increase towards the end of the season. It is recommended to talk to experienced duck hunters around the area you wish to hunt and heed their advice.

2. Purchase appropriate duck decoys. These are available in a variety of materials, sizes and types to match different species of ducks. Visit a reputable hunting store, and purchase duck decoys once you have ascertained the type, size and quantity that you require.

3. Scout for a good location. Again, consult an experienced duck hunter for advice on a location that is both convenient and potentially rewarding for duck hunting. Location has the most important role to play in the number and placement of your duck decoys.

4. Set up your duck decoys. It is advisable to set up your decoys upwind from your hideout (blind) if you are hunting from shore. If you are hunting in a creek or stream, set up a smaller number of duck decoys. Alternatively, use a larger number of decoys if you are hunting in open water bodies, such as a lake or river.
   
   Space out a suitable number of decoys, keeping an approximately 10 yard, open-ended circle or "landing zone" within the spread. The open end should face the direction in which the (decoying) ducks are observed to fly in and land. Make sure that your blind is within effective firing range of the landing zone.

Tips & Warnings

• Ducks are smarter than you may think, and can easily spot differences in decoy size and color (to their own species) from afar. Therefore, make sure that you choose decoys that closely resemble the duck species you intend to hunt. For example, if you are on a hunt for Puddle ducks, buy Puddle decoys. The more your decoys match the color and size of the species, the more they will attract that species.
• Do not use the same duck decoy spreads (type, size and numbers) at different times of the year, and at different hunting spots. The decoying habits and migration patterns of different duck species change continuously, as do their choice of location and migration numbers.

References

• Information on placement of decoy ducks

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