Quick Answer
For a basic turkey spread, use 3-5 decoys, including a full-body hen, a jake, and 1-2 additional hens or jakes, depending on the terrain and hunter preference.
Choosing the Right Decoys
When setting up a turkey fan reaping spread, the type and number of decoys used can make a significant difference in attracting and holding wild turkeys. A good starting point is to use a combination of decoys that mimic the behavior and appearance of a typical turkey group. This can include a full-body hen decoy, a jake decoy, and 1-2 additional hens or jakes. The hens should be placed around 10-15 feet apart, while the jake decoy should be positioned at the edge of the group, about 5-10 feet away from the hens.
Decoy Placement
Decoy placement is crucial in a turkey fan reaping spread. The full-body hen decoy should be placed in the center of the group, facing the direction of the sun. The jake decoy should be positioned off to the side, about 10-15 feet from the hen decoy, and angled to face the hen. The additional hens or jakes can be placed around the edges of the group, about 10-15 feet apart, to create a natural-looking spread. In general, it’s best to place the decoys in a way that creates a sense of movement and activity, rather than a static group.
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