Quick Answer
Strutting decoys are most effective during the early and late seasons of turkey hunting, typically from late March to early April and again in late April to early May, when the birds are more active and receptive to visual stimuli.
Early Season Success
When using strutting decoys during the early season, it’s essential to position them in areas with high bird activity, such as food sources and traditional roosting sites. Typically, this means placing the decoys in fields or clearings within 50-75 yards of a known roosting tree, with the decoy setup angled to mimic the natural strut of a dominant tom. This configuration can help draw in early-season birds, which are often more aggressive and less wary of humans.
Late Season Strategy
In contrast, the late season requires a more subtle approach. As the breeding season progresses, birds become increasingly focused on finding receptive hens and defending their territory. To capitalize on this, set up the decoys in areas with high visibility, such as fence lines, power line ridges, or other elevated points. Position the decoys 75-100 yards apart, with the dominant decoy (usually a gobbler) positioned at one end and a hen decoy at the other. This setup can help tempt a late-season bird into making a decision, often with a strong reaction to the hen decoy.
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