Quick Answer
The ideal ratio of feeding to resting decoys is 2:3, as it creates a believable scenario of a large group of geese congregating to feed, while also providing enough resting decoys to appear like they're taking breaks.
Establishing a Feeding Scene
When setting up a decoy spread, it’s essential to create a believable feeding scene. I recommend using 3-4 feeding decoys placed in a triangular formation, with the tips of the triangles pointing towards the water or food source. This setup allows the geese to land and feed comfortably, while also providing a clear path for them to enter the spread. The feeding decoys should be spaced about 10-15 feet apart, with the center decoy slightly higher than the others to create a natural feeding trough.
Adding Resting Decoys
To create a more realistic scene, I recommend adding 5-6 resting decoys placed around the perimeter of the spread. These decoys should be positioned 20-25 feet away from the feeding decoys, with a slight overlap to create a sense of movement and interaction. The resting decoys should be placed in a way that they appear to be taking breaks, with some facing the feeding decoys and others looking away. This setup helps to create a sense of life and movement within the spread, making it more attractive to the geese.
Decoy Placement Tips
When placing the decoys, remember that the geese will often enter the spread from the windward side, so it’s essential to position the feeding decoys in a way that allows them to land comfortably. Also, consider the sun direction and position the decoys to create a natural-looking shadow, which can help to create a more realistic scene. Finally, always remember to blend the decoys into their surroundings by using natural cover and vegetation to conceal them from view.
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