Quick Answer
Position two hen decoys in a relaxed, facing-away posture, about 10-15 yards apart, with the third decoy slightly behind and angled to attract the attention of approaching toms.
Choosing the Right Decoy Orientation
To create a convincing illusion, it’s essential to position hen decoys in a relaxed, facing-away posture. This allows the decoys to appear non-threatening and increases the likelihood of attracting nearby toms. A facing-away posture also helps to create a sense of calm, which is crucial in early-season hunting scenarios.
Decoy Spacing and Angulation
Position two hen decoys about 10-15 yards apart, with the decoys situated slightly off-axis from your target area. This allows for a more natural-looking arrangement and provides an opportunity for the third decoy to be placed slightly behind and angled to attract the attention of approaching toms. This third decoy should be positioned about 5-7 yards behind the other two decoys and angled at about 45 degrees to create a sense of depth.
Adding a Third Decoy
The third decoy is a crucial element in creating a convincing illusion. By placing it slightly behind and angled, you create a sense of depth and attract the attention of approaching toms. This decoy should be positioned where it can be easily seen by the approaching birds, but not so prominently that it dominates the other decoys. By following these guidelines, you can create a realistic and effective decoy spread that will attract and hold nearby toms.
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