What types of calls are most effective for attracting mallards?

Choosing the Right Call for the Situation

When hunting mallards, it’s essential to have a call that can adapt to different situations. For example, a high-pitched whistling call is best used when trying to attract a large group of mallards, as it can be heard from a distance and is often used by mallards to communicate with each other. This type of call is particularly effective when hunting over a large body of water, such as a lake or a river.

Techniques for Calling Mallards

One of the most effective techniques for calling mallards is to start with a soft quacking call and gradually increase the volume and intensity of the call to mimic the sound of a female mallard leading a group of males to a feeding area. This technique, known as “calling a hen,” can be particularly effective when hunting over a small pond or a puddle. When using this technique, it’s essential to keep the call consistent and to avoid making any sudden or loud noises that might scare off the mallards.

Decoy Spreads and Calling

When setting up a decoy spread, it’s essential to place the calls in a way that creates a natural-looking scene. This might involve placing a few decoy mallards in a small group, with a few more decoys scattered around the edges of the spread. By placing the calls in a way that creates a natural-looking scene, you can increase the chances of attracting mallards to your decoy spread. When using a high-pitched whistling call or a loud, raspy call, it’s essential to place the call in a location where it can be easily heard by the mallards, such as on the edge of the spread or in a location with a clear line of sight to the mallards.