Have you ever called in a big tom turkey, only to watch him hang up just out of range? It’s frustrating, right? Turkey hunting can be tough. Decoys can be the secret weapon to getting those wary birds close enough for a shot. But choosing the right decoy can feel overwhelming. There are so many different types, sizes, and poses. It can be hard to know which ones will work best in your hunting area.
Picking the wrong decoy can scare turkeys away. You might waste your time and effort. This blog post is here to help you. We’ll break down everything you need to know about turkey decoys. We’ll cover the different types, how to set them up, and when to use them. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect decoy setup for your hunting style.
By the end of this post, you’ll be a decoy expert. You’ll understand how to use decoys to trick even the smartest turkeys. Get ready to increase your chances of success this hunting season. Let’s dive into the world of turkey decoys and discover the secrets to bringing those big toms into range!
Our Top 5 Decoys For Turkey Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Decoys For Turkey Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Primos Hunting Lil Gobstopper Hen and Jake Combo Decoy Light-Weight
Rating: 9.1/10
The Primos Hunting Lil Gobstopper Hen and Jake Combo Decoy is a lightweight and collapsible hunting decoy. It’s designed to attract gobblers. The decoys are made to look like smaller turkeys. This makes them easy targets for bigger gobblers. They are easy to carry and set up in the field.
What We Like:
- The decoys have great detail and realistic colors.
- They are lightweight, making them easy to carry.
- The collapsible design makes them simple to pack.
- The smaller size makes it easy to set up.
- The head posture is ultra-realistic.
- The two-piece stake is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might prefer a larger decoy.
- The durability of the stake may need improvement.
Overall, the Primos Lil Gobstopper is a great option for turkey hunters. This decoy is a good choice if you want a lightweight and realistic decoy. It should help you get the attention of gobblers.
2. TargetEvo Turkey Decoys for Hunting
Rating: 9.1/10
The TargetEvo Turkey Decoys are designed to trick turkeys. This 2-pack includes a hen and a jake decoy. They are made to look like real turkeys. The decoys have realistic feather patterns and colors. They are easy to set up and take down. A carry bag is included for easy transport. These decoys are made to help you hunt turkeys successfully.
What We Like:
- The decoys look very realistic.
- They are made from soft, lightweight EVA foam.
- The decoys collapse for easy carrying in the included mesh bag.
- You get two stakes to help set them up.
- The decoys keep their shape, even if they get bent.
- They are easy to set up in different positions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The decoys move in the wind, which could be a problem.
These TargetEvo Turkey Decoys seem like a great option for turkey hunters. They are designed to be realistic and easy to use.
3. Primos Hunting Mobile Series Ground Breaker Decoy Stake
Rating: 9.1/10
The Primos Hunting Mobile Series Ground Breaker Decoy Stake is built for hunters. It helps you set up your decoys quickly. This stake is designed to be tough in the field. It is made to last through many hunts. You can easily use it with many decoy brands. The stake is made of metal, so it is strong.
What We Like:
- Lightweight and durable design.
- The stake is all metal.
- It is also lightweight and durable.
- This stake might work with other brands.
- It has an all metal foot press.
- The construction is durable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product’s price could be a factor for some.
- The stake’s design may not work with all decoy types.
The Primos Ground Breaker Decoy Stake is a solid choice for hunters. It is a good option for anyone who wants a reliable decoy stake.
4. AVIAN-X LCD Feeder Hen Turkey Decoy
Rating: 8.5/10
The AVIAN-X LCD Feeder Hen Turkey Decoy is a must-have for turkey hunters. This decoy is designed to attract gobblers and bring them in close. It is built to look like a realistic hen turkey. This helps hunters get the perfect shot. The decoy is made with tough materials and is easy to carry. It folds up for easy storage and comes with a carry bag and stake.
What We Like:
- Realistic design with lifelike details. The decoy looks like a real hen with reflective feathers.
- Durable construction. It is made of rugged PVC dura-rubber. This makes it strong for tough hunts.
- Easy to set up and take down. It has a collapsible design with a stake for quick setup.
- Compact and portable. The decoy folds up small and comes with a carry bag. This makes it easy to transport.
- Effective at attracting turkeys. The hen’s relaxed position and details will draw gobblers in.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might prefer a larger size. It is 15% smaller than a real turkey.
This AVIAN-X decoy is a great tool for turkey hunting. It offers realism and convenience. It is built to help hunters get the best results.
5. Primos Hunting Lil Gobstopper Hen Turkey Decoy Light-Weight
Rating: 8.5/10
The Primos Hunting Lil Gobstopper Hen Turkey Decoy is made for turkey hunters. It is a lightweight and collapsible decoy. The decoy has realistic coloring and poses. It’s designed to attract gobblers. The smaller size is easy to carry. This helps you get to your hunting spot quickly.
What We Like:
- The decoy has a realistic look.
- It is lightweight and easy to carry.
- The size is smaller. This can make it a good target for gobblers.
- It has high-definition paint.
- The head postures look real.
- It is easy to set up and take down.
- A two-piece stake is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- The decoy is only a hen.
- The decoy might not be durable in rough conditions.
The Primos Lil Gobstopper Hen is a good option for turkey hunters. It is easy to use and carry. You can take it with you to get the perfect shot.
Turkey Decoy Buying Guide: Fooling the Toms
Are you ready to trick a big, boss turkey? Turkey decoys help you do it! They look like real turkeys. This brings the birds closer to you for a shot. Here’s how to pick the best decoy for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good decoy. Here are some things to think about:
- Realism: Does the decoy look like a real turkey? The more realistic, the better. Look at the paint, the shape, and the feathers. A realistic decoy will fool more turkeys.
- Pose: What is the turkey doing? Is it feeding, standing, or fighting? Choose a pose that matches your hunting style.
- Size: Does the decoy look like a real turkey of the right size? Toms are bigger than hens.
- Durability: Can the decoy handle tough weather? Can it survive being bumped around?
- Portability: How easy is it to carry your decoy? Some decoys fold up. Others are light.
2. Important Materials
Decoys are made from different materials. Each has good points and bad points.
- Plastic: Plastic decoys are often cheap. They can be strong. But they might not look as real.
- Foam: Foam decoys are light. They are easy to carry. Foam can tear or break if you are not careful.
- Fabric: Fabric decoys are easy to fold up. They can be very realistic. They can also blow around in the wind.
- Rubber: Rubber decoys are very durable. They are often quite realistic. They can be heavier than other options.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a decoy better or worse.
- Paint: Good paint makes a decoy look real. Look for paint that won’t peel or fade.
- Feathers: Real feathers look great. They make the decoy more realistic. But they can be hard to care for. Some decoys use fake feathers that are also very realistic.
- Construction: A well-built decoy will last longer. Look for strong seams and a good base.
- Weather Resistance: Can the decoy handle rain and sun? Some decoys fade in the sun. Others absorb water.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use the decoy? This helps you choose the right one.
- Solo Hunting: If you hunt alone, a hen decoy can work well. You can also use a jake (young male) decoy to bring in a tom (adult male).
- Hunting with Others: You can use a setup with multiple decoys. Use a hen and a jake. This might make a tom think there is a fight.
- Setup: Place your decoy where the turkeys can see it. Keep it away from trees. Put it where you can get a good shot.
Turkey Decoy FAQs
Here are some common questions about turkey decoys:
Q: What is the best decoy for beginners?
A: A simple hen decoy is a good choice. It is easy to set up and use.
Q: How far away should I put my decoy?
A: Put your decoy about 15-20 yards away. This gives you a good shot.
Q: Can I use a decoy in the rain?
A: Yes, you can. Make sure your decoy is waterproof. Some decoys are ruined by rain.
Q: What if the turkeys don’t come to my decoy?
A: Try moving your decoy. Change the pose. Try calling to the turkeys.
Q: What is a jake decoy?
A: A jake decoy looks like a young male turkey. It can attract older toms.
Q: What is a full-strut decoy?
A: A full-strut decoy shows a turkey with its feathers fanned out. It can be very effective at attracting toms.
Q: How do I store my decoy?
A: Clean your decoy after each hunt. Store it in a dry place. Protect it from the sun.
Q: Can I use a decoy in all states?
A: Check your state’s hunting laws. Some states have rules about decoy use.
Q: What is the best material for a decoy?
A: The best material depends on your needs. Plastic is cheap. Foam is light. Rubber is strong.
Q: How can I make my decoy last longer?
A: Treat it well. Clean it after each hunt. Store it in a safe place.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.