Quick Answer
To avoid spooking pronghorn while setting up decoys, use the wind to your advantage by positioning yourself upwind of the area, move slowly and deliberately, and keep your movements within 50 yards of the decoys. Use natural cover and elevation changes to conceal your setup. Minimize scent trails by avoiding areas with strong vegetation and using scent-free decoys and clothing.
Choosing the Right Spot
When selecting a location for your decoys, look for areas with natural cover such as hills, draws, and rocky outcroppings. Aim for spots with minimal human scent and avoid areas with recent hunting pressure. Keep your decoys about 20-30 yards apart, mimicking the natural spacing of pronghorn.
Setting Up Decoys
Position your decoys in a way that creates a “funnel” effect, guiding pronghorn into a specific area. Use at least two decoys that are facing each other, with one decoy slightly downwind of the other. This setup will allow pronghorn to approach the decoys without feeling threatened or cornered.
Minimizing Scent Trails
To avoid spooking pronghorn with your scent, wear scent-free clothing and use scent-free decoys. Avoid walking through areas with strong vegetation, as this can leave behind a powerful scent trail. Keep your movements slow and deliberate, and try to position yourself upwind of the area to minimize the amount of scent that is carried to the pronghorn.
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