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
- ATTRACTS PREY: Attract prey with this realistic-looking, collapsible hunting decoy; Dimensions (L x W x H): 11 x 5 x 11.5 inches
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED: Includes Lookout Hen decoy, storage compression strap, carry bag, and collapsible carbon stake
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Made from dura rubber with a non-chip paint finish for maximum durability
- RAISED HEIGHT: Raised height aids visibility, allowing gobblers to spot decoy even in dense or tall vegetation
- EASY TO TRANSPORT: Easily collapse lightweight decoy, secure with strap, and transport with carry bag; Weight: 4 pounds
- 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
- 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 design for easy carry. Two-piece stake included
- HS STRUT-LITE JAKE & FEEDING HEN COMBO - The Strut-Lite Jake & Feeding Hen combo decoys by Hunters Specialties is a pack of two decoys including the Jake gobbler decoy and the Hen decoy which work...
- JAKE TURKEY DECOY - The H.S. Strut-Lite Jake decoy by Hunters Specialties is a hollow-body gobbler decoy that is designed to cause aggression of real turkeys that they elicit from a tom turkey
- FEEDING HEN TURKEY DECOY - The H.S. Strut-Lite Feeding Hen decoy by Hunters Specialties is a hollow-body hen turkey decoy that is designed to let turkeys know that the area is safe and enhance your...
- BEST-IN-CLASS DETAIL - Best-in-class detail in the decoys’ flake-resistant paint job makes for extremely realistic the Strut-Lite Hen decoys by Hunters Specialties that fool even the wisest old toms
- PERFECT FOR WOODS - The included two 2-piece ground stakes of the Strut-Lite Jake Turkey Decoy and the Feeding Hen decoy allow for quick setup and removal when things are happening fast in the woods...
- Lifelike posture with 15-percent smaller size attracts longbeards without appearing threatening to other hens
- Features 3 postures that show reception to courtship, challenge other hens, and relaxed behavior; Ideal for early spring when turkeys flocked up
- Crafted out of strong Dura Rubber, this decoy folds up into a bag or turkey vest without creasing or denting
- Sturdy 24-inch, 1 piece folding stake system keeps the decoy sitting higher for greater visibility and realistic motion without "spin"
- Extra portable for folding up and carrying into the field; Includes carrying bag; Detailed body pose, feather detailing, and no-flake paint scheme
- HUNTING TURKEY DECOY - Blow-molded into reality from hand-carved designs, this HDR Hen Turkey decoy harnesses unbeatable detail and durability; The HDR Hen pairs perfectly with jake and gobbler decoys...
- INTERCHANGEABLE HEAD POSTURES - The HDR Hen decoy features an upright body with two interchangeable head postures; Use the outstretched head for more aggressive setups, or the resting head to signal...
- UNMATCHED REALISM & DETAIL - This HDR Hen turkey decoy features true-to-life paint scheme and feather detail and flocked tail section for added realism; It has authentic rubber-molded leg stumps and...
- DELIVERY SCOPE - The Heavy-Duty Realism Breeder Hen turkey decoy from Avian-X comes with two removable heads, an integrated carbon mounting stake that stores in tail, and a carrying decoy bag for easy...
- TOP QUALITY - Avian-X offers industry-leading hunting decoys with unmatched quality and realism; The decoys and made of high-quality materials and are extremely durable; They grit through the toughest...
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.
