Hunting has been a part of human life for centuries and is an import part for us here at Outdoor Magazine. It is an activity that requires skill, knowledge, and the right equipment. Hunting turkeys can be very exhilarating, but it can also be quite challenging. One of the best ways to increase your chances of success is to invest in turkey decoys. In this article, we’ll explore why investing in turkey decoys is essential for hunting success, the benefits of using them, the different types of decoys, and how to pick the right one for your needs.
What are Turkey Decoys?
Turkey decoys are replicas of wild turkeys that are used to attract them to a specific area. They are made of plastic, foam, or wood and are designed to look like real wild turkeys. They can be used in many different ways, such as to lure turkeys into the open for a better shot or to set up a blind for a more natural hunt.
Turkey decoys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from full-sized to miniaturized. Some of them even have realistic feathers and movement, which can be very effective in attracting turkeys.
Benefits of Investing in Turkey Decoys
Using turkey decoys has a number of benefits for hunters. First and foremost, it is an effective way to attract turkeys to a specific area. Since turkeys are naturally wary of humans, decoys can be a great way to draw them in without alarming them.
In addition, decoys can be used to create the right environment for a successful hunt. By placing the decoys in strategic locations, you can create a more natural setting that is conducive to a successful hunt.
Finally, using decoys can also be a great way to practice hunting without actually going out into the field. You can practice shooting at the decoys in your backyard or garage, giving you a chance to hone your skills before you go out into the field.
Types of Turkey Decoys
There are a variety of different types of turkey decoys available on the market. The most common type is the “strutting” decoy, which is designed to look like a male turkey that is strutting around. These decoys are usually made of plastic or foam and are designed to be realistic looking.
Another type of decoy is the “hen” decoy, which is designed to look like a female turkey. These decoys are usually made of wood and are designed to be more realistic looking.
Finally, there are also “floating” decoys, which are designed to float on water and are used to attract turkeys while they are swimming. These decoys are usually made of foam and are designed to look like real wild turkeys.
How to Pick the Right Turkey Decoy
When it comes to picking the right turkey decoy for your needs, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the decoy you choose is realistic looking. This means that it should have realistic looking feathers and movement.
In addition, you want to make sure that the decoy is the right size for your needs. If you are hunting in an open field or in shallow water, then you want to make sure that the decoy is small enough to be realistic looking, but still large enough to attract turkeys.
Finally, you want to make sure that the decoy is durable and can withstand the elements. This means that it should be made from a material that is waterproof and weather resistant.
Important Tips for Using Turkey Decoys
Once you have selected the right turkey decoy for your needs, there are a few important tips that you should keep in mind when using it. First, you want to make sure that the decoy is placed in a strategic location. This means that it should be placed in an area that will give you the best chance of attracting turkeys.
In addition, you want to make sure that you are using the decoy in the right way. This means that you should be using it in a way that is realistic and natural. For example, if you are using a strutting decoy, then you should be strutting it in a way that is similar to how a real turkey would strut.
Finally, you want to make sure that you are using the decoy in a way that will not alarm the turkeys. This means that you should be careful not to make any sudden movements or noises that could scare them off.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Turkey Decoys
Using turkey decoys can be a great way to increase your chances of success while hunting, but there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid. First and foremost, you want to make sure that you are not using the decoy in a way that is too aggressive or unnatural. This means that you should not be using the decoy in a way that is too aggressive or threatening to turkeys.
In addition, you want to make sure that you are not using the decoy in a way that is too obvious. This means that you should be careful not to make it too obvious that you are using a decoy. For example, you should be careful not to make it too obvious that the decoy is being moved or manipulated.
Finally, you want to make sure that you are not using the decoy in a way that is too noisy. This means that you should be careful not to make too many loud noises or movements that could scare off the turkeys.
How to Clean and Store Your Turkey Decoys
Once you have finished using your turkey decoys, it is important to make sure that they are properly cleaned and stored with the proper hunting knife. This means that you should make sure to clean the decoy with a damp cloth after each use and store it in a dry place and keep the rest of your stuff in your hunting backpack.
In addition, you want to make sure that you are storing the decoy in a way that will protect it from the elements. This means that you should be careful to store it in a place that is not too hot or too cold and that is not exposed to excessive moisture.
Finally, you want to make sure that you are protecting the decoy from damage. This means that you should be careful not to drop the decoy or put it in a place where it can be easily damaged.
Popular Brands of Turkey Decoys
When it comes to buying turkey decoys, there are a number of popular brands to choose from.
- The Lil’ Gobbstopper Hen is expertly designed and field-proven to match smaller, less intimidating turkeys that make easy targets for gobblers to bully
- With authentic poses and coloring, the smaller size also makes them easier to pack and lighter carry so you can get to your spot and get the action going faster
- A smaller profile makes an easier target for gobblers to bully. Excellent detail and High-Definition paint that rivals more expensive decoys
- Ultra-realistic head postures. Light-weight, collapsible design for easy carry. Two-piece stake included
- The Lil’ Gobbstopper Hen is expertly designed and field-proven to match smaller, less intimidating turkeys that make easy targets for gobblers to bully
- With authentic poses and coloring, the smaller size also makes them easier to pack and lighter carry so you can get to your spot and get the action going faster
- A smaller profile makes an easier target for gobblers to bully. Excellent detail and High-Definition paint that rivals more expensive decoys
- Ultra-realistic head postures. Light-weight, collapsible design for easy carry. Two-piece stake included
- DURABLE: Tough yet lightweight EVA material holds posture shape year after year | Heat-treated, textured paint process resists scratches or flakes
- REALISTIC: Irresistible head/body anatomy; realistic iridescent feather colors/details
- EASY TO HOLD: Easy to hold when using the reaping technique
- SPECS: Heavy-duty stake with integrated foot step. Just step on it to set up in even the hardest dirt. Dimensions: 13.5” x 12” x 9”, Weight: 3 lbs
- THE GRIND: Never Stop ‘til the Bird Drops! Products built with quality and most of all – with passion
- 2 Pack Collapsible Turkey Hunting Decoys Set: you will receive 2 collapsible turkey decoys for hunting, enough for your daily use and replacement, our turkey decoy has similar look and effect like...
- Realistic Look: our turkey decoys for hunting has this realistic turkey appearance to help you complete a hunt, the effect of this turkey decoy is nice, its appearance can convince the prey that it is...
- Lightweight and Portable Size: our turkey hunting decoys size is measured at 13.4 inches x 5.5 inches x 6.7 inches/ 34 cm x 14 cm x 17 cm, which is a suitable size for daily use, and its portability...
- Quality Material: our collapsible turkey decoys for hunting are made of XPE material, which is strong and will last a long term use, allowing you to enjoy your hunting without being distracted by...
- Widely Applicable: our turkey decoys for hunting pack can be applied not only as decoy for your hunting, but also to help you decorate your home, whether it is indoor or outdoor, it can play a role,...
- REALISTIC full strut Tom decoy with XHD Hyper Feathering highlights each individual feather with deep detail. Ultra-realistic paint, showcases aggressive strutter details with bright whites, vibrant...
- MAGNETIC fan ring allows for mounting included synthetic fan or a natural Feather turkey fan. The removeable handle can also be used for reaping
- UNIVERSAL APEX stake system stores in body & provides lifelike movements in the slightest of wind.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & durable design for ultimate mobility and lasting use.
- INCREASED visibility & lifelike posturing attracts stubborn or distant turkeys
- HUNTING TURKEY DECOY - LCD Lookout Hen Decoy has similar look and effect as popular Breeder Hen; but she's got a little something extra; The Lookout's raised height aids visibility so passing gobblers...
- UNMATCHED REALISM & DETAIL - This hunting turkey decoy features the same attention to detail and authentic paint scheme you expect from Avian-X; From posture to paint; this level of incredible detail...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE - This folding turkey decoy for hunting is 15% smaller than a real turkey; The Lookout Hen Decoy mimics natural reflection of real hen feathers and gives realistic movement without...
- RUGGED & DURABLE - Like all LCD decoys, the Lookout Hen turkey decoy features a collapsible dura-rubber body that won't crease or dent and stays quiet in the field; It grits through the toughest hunts...
- EASY TRANSPORT & STORAGE - Lifelike Collapsible Decoy (LCD) design folds into compact size for travel and storage; Simply blow up and connect to collapsible stake for set up; Comes with storage...
- HUNTING TURKEY DECOY - The LCD Feeder Hen Turkey Decoy draws gobblers in close to set up the perfect kill shot; This hunting Decoy is 15% smaller than a real turkey, features relaxed, content...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE - Typically, a hen will notice a gobbler's advances and approach, signaling she's ready to breed; So if a longbeard's gobbles go ignored, he'll assume she didn't hear or see him and...
- UNMATCHED REALISM & DETAIL - As a longbeard's gobble gets closer, the LCD Feeder's ultra-detailed paint schemes with true-to-life reflective feathers will pull him even deeper under her spell; This...
- RUGGED & DURABLE - Crafted from rugged PVC dura-rubber that quiets movements, this portable turkey decoy for hunting from Avian-X is durable and provides years of reliable use; It grits through the...
- EASY TRANSPORT & STORAGE - This Lifelike Collapsible Decoy (LCD) design folds into a compact, lightweight size for travel and storage; Simply blow up and connect to the collapsible stake for set up;...
- HUNTING TURKEY DECOY - The LCD Half-Strut Jake Decoy tells the tragic tale of a young gobbler living dangerously outside the pecking order; His sub-dominant head and relaxed feather positioning show...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE - This hunting turkey decoy from Avian-X is especially good for the early season when turkeys are working through the pecking order; Combine with your favorite LCD hen decoys and...
- UNMATCHED REALISM & DETAIL - This folding turkey decoy for hunting is 15% smaller than a real turkey; The Half-Strut Jake Decoy mimics natural reflection of real hen feathers and gives realistic...
- RUGGED & DURABLE - Like all LCD decoys, the Half-Strut Jake turkey decoy features a collapsible dura-rubber body that won't crease or dent and stays quiet in the field; It grits through the toughest...
- EASY TRANSPORT & STORAGE - The Lifelike Collapsible Decoy (LCD) design folds into a compact, lightweight size for travel and storage; Simply blow up and connect to the collapsible stake for set up;...
In addition, these brands also offer a variety of different sizes and shapes of decoys. This means that you can find the perfect decoy for your needs, whether you are hunting in an open field or in shallow water.
Finally, these brands also offer a variety of different price points. This means that you can find a decoy that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
How to Choose the Best Turkey Decoy for Your Hunting Style
Choosing the right turkey decoy for your needs is an important part of hunting success. When selecting a decoy, you want to make sure that it is the right size and shape for your needs. In addition, you want to make sure that it is realistic looking and durable.
You also want to make sure that you are using the decoy in the right way. This means that you should be using it in a way that is natural and realistic. Finally, you want to make sure that you are avoiding common mistakes when using the decoy, such as making it too obvious that you are using a decoy or making too much noise.
Don’t forget to check out our camping ovens to perfectly cook the prize turkey you bag!
Conclusion
Turkey decoys can be a great way to increase your chances of success while hunting. By investing in the right decoy and using it in the right way, you can create the perfect environment for a successful hunt.
When selecting a turkey decoy, it is important to make sure that it is the right size and shape for your needs. In addition, you want to make sure that it is realistic looking and durable. Finally, you want to make sure that you are avoiding common mistakes when using the decoy.
Investing in turkey decoys is an essential part of hunting success. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success while hunting.
