Whitetail Deer Hunting Info >> Whitetail Deer Hunting Tips

Two methods are available for using a decoy to attract a mature deer into the hunter’s shooting range. The first method is to set up with a doe decoy during the high time of breeding because this is the time when a great part of the does are staying as far as possible from the open areas because in these locations the animals are harassed on a daily basis. During these periods it is possible that your decoy will actually be the only “doe” in sight when a real buck moves away from the cover in which he was safe, so that he could take a look around and see what is happening.

You should know that decoys aren’t used only during the peak rut as these decoys can be employed earlier in the hunting season, when the whitetails are busy resolving their dominance issues. A few days before the does start coming into estrus, placing a buck decoy along with grunting/rattling will greatly improve your hunting efficiency.

Using decoys that have no movement aren’t recommended as they send a “message” to real whitetail that something is wrong, like an alarm signal and they will be very careful once they have noticed something is wrong so you won’t have great chances capturing a few of these animals. Purchasing products with mechanical tails that flicker at a pre-established interval ( 8 to 16 seconds ) are highly recommended as they give a real look and are more efficient. These decoys can also be used by presiding them up against a tree so that they will give the look of the trailing end of a deer. To put it briefly, when it comes down to decoys, movement is the key.

In order to increase your success you should place two or more decoys to your setup. Using unreal looking decoys will greatly reduce your chances at luring these animals; the more realistic the decoys look, the more chances you will have, this is a proven fact. Another important aspect regarding decoys is the placement; it is recommended that the decoys shouldn’t face your stand because these may cause other deer to look at the same direction that is why it is recommended angling the decoys broadside to the hunter’s position. Using some natural brush or 1-2 branches will improve your chances for success but try not to overdo it as it will basically hide the decoy and what is the point of having a decoy if the deer can’t see it?

Placing a decoy into a feeding area might do the trick as these animals might calm down once they see the decoy and it is possible that they will come out into open areas where you will have a more clearer chance for an efficient shot. A very important aspect you must take into consideration is the safety issue; be very attentive when you carry a decoy, it is highly advisable to cover it with fluorescent covers in & out of the season ( especially during the gun season ), with other words you mustn’t risk your life by exposing yourself as a shooting target.

Useful Info :

Here are several decoy products that both amateur and professional hunters use when they are out in the wilderness hunting whitetail deer:

The head, neck and also the tail on the decoy move in the wind, making it come alive with the slightest breeze. For the ultimate in hunting versatility, it includes small and large antlers, or you can remove the antlers altogether and turn it into a doe. You can even change the mood by positioning the ears higher or lower, and by raising or lowering the head. The decoy quickly and conveniently breaks down into parts that can be carried in the included mesh backpack.

Flambeau’s Masters Series decoys are true standouts in the field because of their game-luring realism. This stunningly accurate deer decoy is the creation of award-winning wildlife sculptor Chris Schiller. It features a twist-locking leg system that adds unsurpassed stability, durability and ease of assembly. The limbs, head and antlers all fit into a storage cavity inside the body for easy transport. Comfortable shoulder strap attached between chest and hind quarters enables you to easily carry the decoy. The rear leg is designed to accept scent pads using Flambeau’s scent-management system.

The Flambeau Whitetail Doe Decoy is perfect for setting up an illusion that is certain to fool even the most wary buck. Looking a little wary, but receptive, this duplicate doe will draw a buck in quickly without alarming him.

The Redi-Doe is easily adaptive to bedded positions and it assembles and breaks down quickly in the field. The decoy’s dimensions : 42 L x 45 H x 22 W inches (assembled) (106.68 L x 114.3 H x 55.88 W cm) and a weight of 15lbs ( 6.80 kg ).

The CommAndelope is painted very detailed giving the decoy a real look. It can be used in standing or bedded position. A easy to set-up decoy with the following dimensions: 28 L x 19-3/4 H x 6-1/4 W inches (folded) (71.12 L x 50.17 H x 15.88 W cm)