Hunting Tips

Helpful hints to hunting with decoys

Regardless of what type of game you are hunting, there are several helpful tips to keep in mind when using decoys. Here are just a few.

Handle decoys with care

Prior to using, carefully check the condition of older duck decoys. You may need to spend some time making repairs or touching up paint jobs. Also, remember that that scent plays a big part in hunting. It's always best to use scent-free gloves when transporting the mallard duck decoys

Pay attention to placement

The placement of goose decoys is incredibly important. Ideally, you want them to imitate nature. For example, when it comes to deer decoys, placement depends on the whether the decoy is a doe or a buck. If it's a doe, its head should be faced away from you because a buck will generally walk around to check the doe's scent, which gives the hunter a clean shot.

Obviously, the placement depends on the game you are hunting. To increase your odds for success, do some homework beforehand or ask other local hunters about their placement methods.

Develop a strategy

Once you understand the basics of placement, take sometime to develop an overall strategy. This should involve thinking through where and how you plan to set up. Start by carefully evaluating your set-up site. Does the space or area enable you to take clean shots if given the opportunity? Are you focusing on an area that is too small or even too large?

Again, much like placement, strategies will vary based on the game being hunted. For example, if you are hunting ducks you need to consider several different elements when you develop a strategy, including what is commonly referred to as a landing zone. This simply means creating an overall effect that is welcoming to other birds.