Duck decoys are an integral part of any waterfowl hunter’s arsenal just like turkey decoys. They can help you attract and bag more ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. In this article, we will discuss why you need duck decoys and the benefits they provide. We’ll also cover how to choose the right decoy, the types of decoys available, the best brands, and tips for using them.
What are Duck Decoys?
Duck decoys are a type of hunting tool used to attract waterfowl while in your hunting blind. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made of plastic, wood, or foam. They are typically used to lure ducks and other waterfowl into a hunting area. The most common type of decoy is the floating decoy, which is designed to float on the surface of the water. These are great too if hunting from a kayak.
Decoys come in a variety of styles and colors, and they are frequently used in combination with calls, lures, and other hunting techniques to attract waterfowl. When used properly, decoys can be an effective tool for luring waterfowl into a hunting area.
Benefits of Duck Decoys
One of the most obvious benefits of duck decoys is that they can help you attract more waterfowl. Decoys can be used to create the illusion of a flock of ducks, geese, or other waterfowl. This helps attract more birds to your hunting area and increases your chances of success.
Another benefit of duck decoys is that they can help you conceal your presence. Ducks are naturally wary of predators, so using decoys can make them less wary and more likely to land in your hunting area. Decoys can also help you remain undetected while hunting, as they can obscure your silhouette and make it harder for waterfowl to spot you.
Decoys can also help you create a sense of realism in your hunting area. Ducks and other waterfowl are used to seeing other birds in their environment, so using decoys can make your hunting area look more natural and inviting. This can encourage more birds to land in your hunting area and make them less wary of your presence.
Finally, decoys can help you create a sense of movement in your hunting area. Ducks and geese are used to seeing other birds flying and swimming around, so using decoys can make your hunting area look more active. This can help attract more birds and make them less likely to suspect your presence.
How to Choose the Right Duck Decoy
When choosing a duck decoy, there are a few things you should consider. The first is size. Smaller decoys are better at concealing your presence, while larger decoys can help you create the illusion of a larger flock.
The second is material. Plastic decoys are lightweight and durable, but they can also be noisy. Wood decoys are quieter and more realistic, but they can be heavier and less durable. Foam decoys are lightweight and realistic, but they can be more expensive.
The third is color. Different species of ducks prefer different colors, so it’s important to choose the right color for the species you’re hunting. For example, mallards prefer brown and green, while pintails prefer gray and white.
Finally, you should consider the number of decoys you need. The number of decoys you need will depend on the size of your hunting area, the species of waterfowl you’re hunting, and the weather conditions. Generally, the more decoys you have, the better.
Types of Duck Decoys
There are several types of duck decoys available. The most common type is the floating decoy, which is designed to float on the surface of the water. These decoys come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made of plastic, wood, or foam. Don’t forget your duck hunting waders for these!
Another type of decoy is the full-bodied decoy, which is designed to look like a full-sized duck. These decoys are more realistic and can help attract more birds, but they are also heavier and more expensive.
Finally, there are motion decoys, which are designed to simulate the movement of a duck. These decoys use motorized wings and tails to create the illusion of a swimming or flying duck, and can be an effective way to attract more birds.
Duck Decoy Setup
Once you have your decoys, you’ll need to set them up in your hunting area. The first step is to choose the best spot for your decoys. You’ll want to choose a spot that is close to the water and in a natural-looking area. The spot should also have enough room for your decoys to move freely and not be too crowded.
Once you have chosen a spot, you’ll need to arrange your decoys. You’ll want to create a pattern that looks natural and inviting. Start with the full-bodied decoys, followed by the floating decoys and finally the motion decoys. You’ll also want to make sure the decoys are evenly spaced and not crowded together.
Duck Decoy Placement
Once you have your decoys set up, you’ll need to choose the best placement for them. When placing your decoys, you’ll want to make sure they are close enough to the shoreline to be visible, but far enough away to not spook the birds. You’ll also want to make sure the decoys are arranged in a natural-looking pattern and are not too crowded.
When it comes to motion decoys, you’ll want to make sure they are placed in areas where the wind won’t blow them away. You’ll also want to make sure the motion decoys are placed in areas where they will be visible to the birds.
Best Duck Decoy Brands
When it comes to duck decoys, there are several brands that stand out. Here is a list of some of the best selling ones out there.
- MASTER SERIES MALLARD: Durable, classic Mallard decoy with heightened feature detail and sand-filled keels for reliable realism season after season.
- REALISM THAT GETS RESULTS: Based on carvings by Master Carver Roger Desjardins. Detailed winter plumage paint scheme.
- PATENTED UVISION PAINT TECHNOLOGY: Paint scheme of unparalleled realism that reflects the real ultraviolet signature of waterfowl plumage to the eye of live ducks for the most convincing decoy...
- FLOATING DECOYS: These Flambeau Outdoors decoys float in classic Mallard posture for heightened on-the-water realism.
- 12-PACK INCLUDES: 14” Full-Sized Mallard Decoys – (6) Active Drakes, (6) Active Hens.
- 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
- STORM FRONT 2 SERIES: A deadly fusion of what the birds need and the hunter demands—unsurpassed realism and unequivocal durability.
- FLOATING DECOYS: These Flambeau Outdoors decoys float in classic Mallard posture for heightened on-the-water realism. Proprietary keel design features (4) tie-off points for versatile motion in...
- PATENTED UVISION PAINT TECHNOLOGY: Paint scheme of unparalleled realism that reflects the real ultraviolet signature of waterfowl plumage to the eye of live bird for the most convincing decoy...
- REALISTIC DESIGN: These decoys feature a high-definition Mallard paint scheme. Carved by renowned master carvers Tom Christie, Dave Van Lanen and Rich Smoker.
- 6-PACK INCLUDES: 14'' Full Size Mallard Decoys - (2) Active Drakes, (1) Semi-resting Drake, (3) Semi-resting Hens.
- Instructions for Use: our ducks are made of EVA soft silicone material, so when you use them for the first time (especially in cold winter) there will be a situation that the recovery is not complete,...
- Perfect Duck Hunting Tools: Each decoy is meticulously crafted and finely made to capture every detail of a real duck, with a lifelike appearance that rivals the real thing, and intricate feather...
- Easy To Carry And Use: Different from traditional HDPE (hard plastic) ducks, it is made of high quality EVA material, foldable and reboundable, weighing 0.93kg per box, extremely lightweight and very...
- Delicate floating bait: Our decoy ducks float on the water in the classic mallard stance, enhancing the realism on the water. The special keel design better helps the duck to keep balance and allows...
- Durable construction: Heerweiyi mallard ducks are made of high-quality materials combined with professional spray painting + hand tracing technology to make our ducks more durable, fade-resistant,...
- MALLARD DUCKS – This package includes a male lifelike plastic Mallard duck. It measures 16”(L) x 7.5”(H) x 5.5”(W). The duck is hollow inside making it extremely lightweight and easy to...
- DUCK HUNTING – This hunting duck decoy is perfect for attracting live ducks and waterfowl. Ideally used for hunting, wildlife observation or as a decorative element.
- FLOATING DUCKS - The bottom of the duck has an attached flotation piece to help the duck maintain its balance and to prevent it from tilting when it floats. Simply remove the cap, fill with sand or...
- DUCK DECOR - Boasts a lifelike appearance that rivals the beauty of real duck. The intricate feather detailing, and natural pose make it a captivating and charming addition to any space.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Crafted from high-quality materials, our duck decoy is built to last. It is made to withstand outdoor elements such as sun, rain, and wind, ensuring long-lasting beauty and...
- Why Choose Our Bird Deterrent Garden Protectors: The horned owl scarecrow scares birds away from fruit trees or vine, squirrels, pigeons, rabbits, seagulls, varmints, raccoons and small mammal etc....
- Not Just a Scarecrow: The fake owl for bird deterrent is made with high-end weatherproof PE plastic and hand-painted non-fading vivid color. Besides being an excellent bird repellent, this adorable...
- No Battery Required: The owl decoy head rotates 360 degrees and has a wind panel on the back of the head, acts as a wind vane naturally. Suggestions: you move owl decoy around regularly to keep...
- Easy To Install: The bottom of the owl has an anchor, you can also fill the owl decoy with sand in the base for stability, stick the fin in the back of its head, the wind helps to move the motion head...
- Realistic Design: The bird repellent imitation owl keep birds, squirrels, woodpeckers, hawk away humanely without harming them. Measures: each approx 5 inch(L) x 5 inch(W) x 10.6 inch(H). If you are...
- Meet Your Assorted Needs: the package will bring you 2 pieces of floating plastic swans, mainly available in white; The quantity is sufficient for you to use and replace; Note: please note that slight...
- Elegant and Delicate Design: the floating swan decoy looks vivid and lifelike, and can float in water, and looks like a real swan works in water, easy to catch people's attention quickly in daily life
- Appropriate Size for Using: each floating swan measures approx. 14 x 7 x 10 inches, and its body is hollowed out inside, so it looks big yet lightweight, large enough to see clearly from a distance;...
- Functional and Practical: the floating swan decoy for a pond can be applied as a hunting prop, and is an effective item to guard other small animals in your yard or pond from wild animals
- Extensively Assorted Usages: you can use these plastic swans for pond in many places, including but not limited to ponds, pools, lakes, water surfaces, swimming pools, ground; You can also use them in...
- CUPPED WATERFOWL FEEDER BUTT HEN DECOY: Premium Quality Duck Butt-Up Floater Decoy with Weighted Keel and Lifelike Color Design
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION & REALISTIC DESIGN: Each decoy is molded from heavy duty plastic that is lightweight and durable for long term use and wear; Lifelike paint scheme is bright and detailed for...
- WEIGHTED KEEL: Keel is weighted for balance and realistic motion on water
- INCLUDES: One feeder butt hen decoy
- CUPPED WATERFOWL HUNTING GEAR: Premium waterfowl hunting gear designed by guides, crafted with the highest quality materials available, and built with the desire to see more sunrises, spend extra time...
- PREDATOR HUNTING DECOY: Ultra-realistic body detail mimics the true-to-life definition of a coyote with the coloration of a mature male
- NUISANCE ANIMAL DETERRENT DECOY: Excellent deterrent for unwanted vermin, including rodents, geese, and smaller bird species, when placed in or near barns, gardens, orchards, ponds, etc
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Ultra-sturdy hard plastic construction with heavy-duty threaded leg posts and locking lugs. Features a removable leg design that allows the legs to fit conveniently in the body...
- DETAILS & FEATURES: Includes faux fur tail with a wire backbone for easy manipulation and realistic motion in the wind, a scent pad spike on the rear leg, and poseable ears to mimic a relaxed, alert,...
- FULLY ASSEMBLED SIZE: 30" L x 9" W x 25" H
- High-Quality, Realistic Looking -- These swan decoys will fool the neighbors and nuisance waterflow alike. Constructed of durable plastic for years of use, and painted for a life-like appearance.
- Variety of Uses -- Add a pair of swan decoys to your yard, pond, lake or outdoor pool. Simply place on your lawn or in your pool. For a pond or lake, anchor swans to the shoreline or the bottom.
- Get Rid of Nuisance Wildlife -- Fake swan decoys imitate the real thing, and they deter Canadian geese, ducks, and other birds. Move decoys frequently and ensure they are visible from above.
- Helps Reduce Animal Waste - With fewer geese and birds visiting your property, you will see a reduction in waste on your grass or beach area. Swan decoy figurines double as beautiful decorations.
- Prevent Geese Problems Without Chemicals - Real swans are very territorial, competing with birds for nesting space. Swan decoys claim your property as swan territory, all without harsh chemicals.
Popular Duck Decoy Accessories
In addition to decoys, there are several accessories that can help you attract more birds. The first is a decoy bag, which can help you transport and store your decoys. Decoy bags come in a variety of sizes and styles and can help you keep your decoys organized.
Another popular accessory is a decoy line, which can help you set up your decoys in a neat and orderly pattern. Decoy lines come in a variety of lengths and can help you create a realistic-looking pattern.
Finally, one of the most popular accessories is a decoy retriever. Decoy retrievers are designed to help you quickly and easily retrieve your decoys from the water. They come in a variety of styles and can help you save time and effort when retrieving your decoys.
Tips for Duck Decoys
When using duck decoys, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. The first is to make sure your decoys are placed in a natural-looking pattern. Ducks and other waterfowl are used to seeing other birds in their environment, so arranging your decoys in a natural-looking pattern can help make them less wary of your presence.
The second is to make sure your decoys are visible. Ducks and other waterfowl are used to seeing other birds in their environment, so making sure your decoys are visible can help attract more birds. You’ll also want to make sure your decoys are placed close enough to the shoreline to be visible, but far enough away to not spook the birds.
The third is to use motion decoys. Motion decoys can help create the illusion of a swimming or flying duck, which can help attract more birds. You’ll also want to make sure the motion decoys are placed in areas where they will be visible to the birds.
Finally, make sure to change up your decoy setup from time to time. Ducks and other waterfowl are used to seeing other birds in their environment, so changing up your decoy setup can help make your hunting area look more natural and inviting and can help attract more birds.
Conclusion
Duck decoys can be an effective tool for luring waterfowl into your hunting area. They can help you create the illusion of a flock of ducks, geese, or other waterfowl and can help you conceal your presence. They can also help you create a sense of realism and movement in your hunting area and can help attract more birds.
When choosing a duck decoy, there are a few things you should consider, such as size, material, color, and the number of decoys you need. There are several types of duck decoys available, including floating decoys, full-bodied decoys, and motion decoys. When setting up your decoys, you’ll want to choose the best spot and create a natural-looking pattern.
Finally, there are several accessories and tips that can help you attract more birds. Make sure to choose the right brand, use motion decoys, and change up your decoy setup from time to time. With the right decoys and accessories, you can increase your chances of success and bag more ducks and geese.
Duck decoys can be an invaluable tool for any waterfowl hunter. They can help you attract more birds and increase your chances of success. With the right decoys and accessories, you can bag more ducks and geese and enjoy a successful waterfowl hunting season. So, why wait? Get the right duck decoys and start hunting today!
