Decoys For Deer Hunting
Deer Hunting Tips: Decoys For Deer Hunting
The use of decoys for deer hunting can offer added excitement for hunters. The purpose of a decoy is to provide a visual target for the deer to see. This can result in drawing deer in from a distance. Here are a few tips for deer hunting with decoys.
Types Of Decoys
There are a wide selection of decoys available on the market. They come in many models such as standing, head up, head down feeding, and even bedded down. There are buck and doe decoys. They are made of many different types of materials such as foam, hard plastic, heavy cardboard, and others. They can be full sized 3-D or single layered light weight versions. There are also the more advanced mechanical versions that offer moving parts such as tail and ears.
Which Decoy To Use
Deciding which decoy to use boils down to individual preferences and of course the amount one is willing to invest. A decoy can come with a high price tag depending upon the brand name, quality, and style. Many hunters prefer the more realistic full sized 3-D versions. There are more light weight types such as the fold up styles that have a picture of a deer printed on both sides of a cardboard or foam back ground.
Decoy Placement
The main goal of the hunter is to place the decoy in areas where it will be seen by the deer. Locations such as field edges, open woods that offer a good field of view, or any other areas where deer will see the decoy from a distance. The more visible the better. If hunting near heavy cover that offers open areas along the outer edges, this would be an ideal place for a decoy.
Decoy Set Up
The decoy should be placed upwind of the hunters stand location. Generally, a 25-30 yard maximum range from the stand will be sufficient. Deer will normally approach a decoy from downwind. This will provide the hunter with a relatively short shot. Place the decoy slightly to the left of the stand if deer are expected to come in from the right. Place the decoy to the right if deer come in from the left. This will provide a broadside shot as the deer walk by the stand. In most cases bucks will approach a buck decoy from the front and a doe decoy from the back. Keep this in mind when deciding how to face the decoy.
Scent Control
Make sure the decoy is free of human or unnatural odors. Use scent elimination spray products to saturate the decoy. Use rubber gloves when handling the decoy to prevent scent transfer. When transporting, make sure the decoy is not placed where it may come in contact with chemical odors such as gasoline from your vehicle.
Doe Or Buck
A doe decoy is often the most successful during the breeding periods. The use of estrus scents placed on the ground around the decoy is an added bonus. Buck decoys are often more productive during the rest of the season. However, it may be beneficial to experiment with both throughout the season.
Use these tips for deer hunting with decoys and see if they add more excitement to the hunt. Be safe, good luck, and enjoy your next hunting experience.
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