NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/1408550
16 Nebraskaland • October 2021 IN THE FIELD I grew up hunting in the '70s and, at that time, only a couple of decoy manufacturers existed. As a teenager on a tight budget, I decided to make my own — probably not my best idea. I used white bleach bottles with cut- out plastic heads, and I painted them, too. Man, I was proud. However, I don't remember shooting a duck over them, and most of them sank after a couple of hunts. The jabbing I took from my older brother and his buddies convinced me that decoy design probably wasn't in my future. Choosing the right brand of decoys can be downright frustrating. Cruise down the aisles of your favorite sporting goods store or flip through pages of the latest hunting magazines, and you'll see all shapes, sizes and prices — all promoting a unique difference in their decoy and why their decoy is more effective. But does brand and style really matter? And if so, which is best for your hunting crew? While working hunting shows for a number of years and repping one particular brand, I was amazed by how many waterfowl hunters didn't have a clue on which decoy they should choose. Even the more seasoned hunter was looking for that certain edge — something that would make ducks fall at the sight of the decoy. Decoys on a Budget Decoys can be expensive, and let's face it, not everyone has the budget for high-quality brands. Do you save to get a half dozen fully flocked decoys or go with a cheaper brand? I'm a big believer in quality over quantity, so do your homework before buying. Check online forums and reach out to others in the waterfowl world who no longer hunt and are looking to unload decoys. If you're looking to add numbers, particularly for goose setups, don't be afraid to add some nice-looking silhouette decoys. I've used them with great success, particularly late in the year. Whatever direction you go, keep in mind quality over quantity. You want all the advantages you can get with wary, late-season birds. Hunting Terrain Matters The type of hunting you do should correlate with decoy choice. For example, if your hunting is primarily walk-in, choose a light and durable decoy. If you usually hunt a private spot, choose a decoy that will last and matches the duck you are pursuing. Early-season setups are different than late season. Make sure you have options for both and change as the migration develops. And if boat hunting is your choice, you'll need a decoy that can hold up to the beating it will take. Be prepared to adapt as you go. THE RIGHT DECOY FOR YOU By Todd Mills When buying waterfowl decoys, knowing where you're hunting is a huge driving factor. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND