Quick Answer
For early season deer hunting, a decoy setup consisting of two to three decoys placed in a food source area, such as a cornfield or soybean field, at a distance of 20-30 yards from each other, can be highly effective.
Decoy Placement
When setting up decoys for early season deer hunting, it’s essential to place them in an area where deer are likely to congregate. This could be a food source area, such as a cornfield or soybean field. Position the decoys 20-30 yards apart from each other to create a realistic spread, and make sure they’re not too close to each other or to any obstacles that could block the deer’s line of sight.
Decoy Types and Numbers
For a 3-decoy setup, consider using a mix of buck and doe decoys. A buck decoy should be placed in the center, with a doe decoy on either side. This setup will help to mimic a family group of deer. If you only have two decoys, place them on either side of the center buck decoy. Use decoys that are high-quality and realistic, with good movement and detail. Three to four decoys is the maximum number for a setup, as too many decoys can look unnatural.
Movement and Scouting
To increase the effectiveness of your decoy setup, make sure to move the decoys regularly to mimic the movement of real deer. This can be done by repositioning the decoys every few days or by using a decoy with a built-in movement system. Before setting up your decoy, scout the area thoroughly to identify any potential ambush points for deer, such as travel corridors and food sources. This will help you to position your decoys in the most effective location possible.
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