Decoys

Some hunters use decoys as an another technique to help their hunt. Decoys are life-like models of animals that are used to attract real animals into areas where hunters are waiting, usually in blinds. Waterfowl hunters have been using decoys for hundreds of years, but many other types of hunters are using them now as well.

Simple decoys can be made by painting blocks of wood or plastic bottles. Or you can buy extremely life-like plastic or foam decoys of most animals at any store that sells hunting supplies. You can even buy motorized decoys that move by themselves (these are illegal in some areas).

A few things to remember about using decoys safely:
  Always check your local hunting regulations to see if decoys are allowed.
  Always conceal your decoys while transporting them from one place to another. If you wear full camouflage and carry a life-size deer decoy through the woods, another hunter may only see the decoy and shoot at you.
  If you are hunting on the ground with a decoy (as in turkey hunting), set-up with your back against a tree or rock that is wider than your shoulders. This will help prevent you from being shot if another hunter sneaks up from behind and shoots at your decoy.
  If you are hunting on the ground with a decoy (as in turkey hunting), be sure you have a clear line of vision to your decoy and 100 yards beyond it. This will allow you to see another hunter stalking your decoy. If you see another hunter, (especially if he/she is close to your "line of vision" ) call out to them in a loud, clear voice.
  If you are calling over decoys and then decide to move to a new location, check carefully to be sure that no one is stalking your decoys before you move.

Your safety is your responsibility - hunt defensively!

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