Why do some pigeon hunters use live bait instead of decoys?

Live Bait Advantages

Using live bait in pigeon hunting offers several advantages over decoys. Firstly, live bait is highly effective in attracting pigeons from a distance, often drawing birds in from beyond the range of decoys. In addition, live bait can be used effectively in situations where pigeons are wary of decoys, such as in areas with heavy hunting pressure or where birds have become accustomed to decoy usage. A common live bait used in pigeon hunting is a caged bird, typically a dove or a smaller pigeon species, which is placed near the hunting area to attract larger pigeons.

Choosing the Right Live Bait

The choice of live bait is crucial in pigeon hunting. A general rule of thumb is to use a caged bird that is similar in size and species to the pigeons being hunted. For example, if hunting European pigeons, a caged rock dove is often used as live bait. The caged bird is usually placed in a visible location, such as a tree or a fence post, and is often accompanied by a sound source, such as a pigeon caller or a radio broadcasting pigeon calls, to increase its attractiveness to the target pigeons. The live bait should be placed at a distance of around 100-200 yards from the hunting area to allow the pigeons to feel comfortable approaching it.

Setting Up the Hunting Area

When using live bait in pigeon hunting, it’s essential to set up the hunting area carefully to maximize its effectiveness. The live bait should be placed in a location that provides a clear shot for the hunter, taking into account the wind direction and the sun’s position. A good rule of thumb is to set up the hunting area with a slight slope or incline, allowing the pigeons to approach the live bait from a distance and then fly directly into the hunting area. The live bait should be checked regularly to ensure it remains healthy and attractive to the pigeons, and to replace it if necessary.