Are decoy weights necessary for goldeneye setups?

Importance of Decoy Placement

When setting up for goldeneye hunting, the type and weight of decoys play a crucial role. In general, using lighter decoys can be beneficial when targeting goldeneye in areas with shallow water or dense vegetation. This is because lighter decoys allow hunters to quickly and quietly set up and break down their decoy spread without spooking the birds. For example, using 1-2 pound decoys can be effective in areas with 1-3 feet of water and dense aquatic vegetation.

Decoy Weight Considerations

While lighter decoys can be used in certain situations, heavier decoys are often more effective in other cases. In areas with deeper water or open spaces, heavier decoys can be used to create a more realistic and attention-grabbing decoy spread. For example, using 5-7 pound decoys can be effective in areas with 5-10 feet of water and open spaces. In these situations, the added weight and stability of the decoys can help to keep them upright and visible, even in windy or rough conditions.