Experience with decoys during pre-rut?

[flntknp17]

Just seeking the experiences of others in Iowa that have used decoys (specifically doe decoys) during the weeks prior to peak rut. I had two mature does that had very negative responses to my doe decoy last week. Both saw the decoy at 40-50 yards and became extremely nervous, eventually both turned around and left. Neither flagged or blew, just got that nervous look and did a little foot stomping. So far all the fawns and bucks that have seen the same decoy have either ignored it or acknowledged it and payed it no further attention. I know I am the only bow hunter in at least a four square mile area. It does get gun hunted, but I am the only one they would have encountered yet this year or for at least the last three Falls. This makes me think they saw something they didn't like rather than having been previously educated.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

Matt

 

[caleb]

I have always had does act goofy around decoys. They always react just like you said. I have had positive responses with bucks though. I wouldn't beat myself up about it.

 

[Hillwalker]

This may sound a little funny but I have added a bit of realism to my decoy. it is a carry lite and had a plastic tail on it when new. i have replaced the tail with one that I scun out of a real doe. i put 2 eyelets on it to run a piece of 20 lb fishing string through. One eyelet at the top of rump and one on the top of the head. You string it trough the eyelets and hook it to the base of the tail. Now you can twitch the tail from a groud blind or carry the spool up to your trre stand and work it from there. it has been very deadly to both does and bucks. You can raise and hold the tail like they are urinating or flash it to show calming.They eyelets allow you to move the tail from any direction including elevation. My son like to trick people in town as they drive by. Everyone stops and looks real hard as he is hiding behind a tree. Tip it with a little scent and it is awsome. It is hard to use if you have alot of small branches around your setup so you have to use it on field egdes or clearings in timber. Has never failed me yet.