Quick Answer
For open water diver spreads, use a full-body decoy, as it provides a more realistic and appealing target for divers. However, for short-range, close-quarters hunting, a silhouette decoy may be effective.
Choosing the Right Decoy for Diver Spreads
When hunting divers from layout boats, a full-body decoy is often the better choice. This is because divers have a relatively short visual range and are often attracted to larger, more prominent targets. A full-body decoy, typically 3-4 feet in length, can be used in a single rig or in combination with smaller decoys to create a more realistic spread.
Decoy Spreads for Divers
For open water diver spreads, a 10-15 decoy spread is common, with 5-7 full-body decoys serving as the main target. These decoys should be spaced 10-20 feet apart, with a mix of smaller decoys and flags used to create a more dynamic and realistic spread. This type of spread can be effective for divers up to 100 yards away. For closer-range hunting, a smaller spread of 3-5 decoys, including a few full-body decoys, can be used.
Safety Considerations
When hunting divers from layout boats, safety is always the top priority. Make sure to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, keeping an eye out for other boats, people, and wildlife. Additionally, be mindful of the wind direction and speed, as it can affect the movement and visibility of your decoys. Always keep a safe distance from your decoys, at least 20-30 feet away, to avoid spooking the birds and to ensure a clear shooting lane.
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