Turkey Decoy Tips
Turkey Hunting Tips: The turkey decoy is a manufactured or mounted replica of a wild turkey. It is used to represent turkeys walking, strutting, standing, or feeding. The purpose of a decoy is to offer turkeys an object to look at while the hunter is trying to call them into a set up location. This visual effect often provides the hunter with an edge. Using decoys can in many situations allow the hunter a better chance at success.
How To Use A Decoy:
Learning how to use a decoy is often based on trial and error. Here are some suggestions to start. Decoys need to be placed in an open area of woods or fields that will provide the best chance of it being seen by a turkey. Try not to place it too close to any other objects such as trees or thick cover. The decoy should be placed at least 15 to 20 yards away from the hunter. This gives the hunter plenty of room to allow for movement if need be. Also the hunter should position the decoy in a manor in which the hunter is not in the direct line of sight to on coming turkeys. The decoy should be securely staked to the ground. This prevents it from falling or being blown over. Facing the decoy away from the direction that turkeys are expected to come from is sometimes helpful.
Decoy Tips:
Often the use of a single hen decoy will be effective. However, adding another hen or jake decoy to the set up will at times help in bringing in leery gobblers. Having a feeding hen will also add to the contentment and calmness factor.
Try using soft clucks and purrs upon initial set up adding in soft yelps after a few minutes. Increase the volume and excitement level to the calls only if there is no response to soft calling. Be patient and observant as often gobblers or other turkeys will walk in without making a sound.
Decoys should be carried in a backpack when ever possible. Must decoys are light weight, flexible, and can be folded up for transport. Don’t forget the stake when removing from the field.
If using flex or blow up style decoys, make sure to fully inflate or extend out upon placement. This way there are no unnatural dents or bulges on the decoy. Turkeys will be able to see any imperfections.
Try these turkey hunting tips for using decoys. They may provide for a successful hunting experience.
