Quick Answer
Mergansers are highly responsive to sound and can be attracted using a variety of calls, including the "whistler call" which mimics the sound of a merganser's alarm call, and the "laughing call" which imitates the bird's social interactions. These calls can be used in combination with visual decoys to increase effectiveness. For best results, use a high-pitched call that's loud and clear.
Choosing the Right Call
When selecting a call for merganser hunting, consider using a call that produces a high-pitched sound, typically in the range of 2,000 to 3,000 Hz. This frequency range is most closely mimicked by the merganser’s natural vocalizations. Look for calls with adjustable pitch control to allow for precise tuning.
Decoying Mergansers
Mergansers are highly social birds and often respond to visual decoys. Use a pair of merganser decoys, ideally one male and one female, to create a realistic social setting. Position the decoys about 10 to 20 yards apart to create a sense of interaction. This setup can increase the effectiveness of your call by up to 30%.
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