Can You Attract Pheasants With Decoys Late In The Season?

Setting Up a Late Season Pheasant Spread

When setting up a decoy spread late in the season, it’s essential to consider the birds’ reduced activity and tendency to roost in dense cover. Use 3-5 high-quality pheasant decoys placed in a way that mimics a small covey or a lone bird. Place the decoys in areas with minimal vegetation, such as fields or edges, to create a visible target for the birds.

Hunting Late Season Pheasants on Public Land

Late season pheasant hunting on public land often requires a more aggressive approach, such as group pushes or walking techniques that cover a lot of ground quickly. To increase the chances of success, focus on areas with recent bird activity, such as freshly pooped areas or areas with scratched-up cover. When walking, use a steady, deliberate pace and keep an eye on the horizon for birds that might be flushed by the movement. Aim to cover at least 1-2 square miles of public land per day, using the wind and terrain to your advantage.

Tips for Hunting Late Season Pheasants With Decoys

When hunting late season pheasants with decoys, be prepared to adapt to changing bird behavior. Pheasants may become more skittish and less responsive to decoys as the season wears on. To counter this, use high-quality decoys that mimic the appearance and movement of real birds, and consider adding a caller to the setup. Focus on making short, precise shots when the birds do respond to the decoys, as they may be more likely to be roosted or bedded in dense cover.