Have you ever wondered how to start a duck decoy collection but don’t know where to start? Look no further than this article will explain the principles behind the hobby of collecting duck decoys, and start your collection today!
The story behind the duck decoys:
Native Americans used cattails, sedges, and other aquatic plants to mask floating decoys to entice ducks for a kill. Ducks were an important game bird for early Americans. The Indians set up their camps around lakes, ponds, and rivers to have a nearby duck hunting area.
A duck decoy was a necessary aid in attracting birds close enough to hunt with a bow, spear, or net. Archaeologists have found dozens of ancient duck decoys in caves dating back thousands of years.
Where to buy duck decoys:
Online websites offer a great place to start a collection of duck decoys. They offer peace of mind shopping with a wide variety and easy shipping options.
Auction websites are another good idea of where to buy duck decoys. You will find vintage duck decoys that are considered ancient folk art. Handmade wooden duck decoys would add value to your collection.
Be on the lookout for:
Check your local hunting laws before using duck decoys to make sure they are legal in your state. One key to a successful duck decoy collection is selecting decoys that represent the live ducks in the area you are hunting. Ducks have keen eyesight, so it’s important that your decoys are real. Male ducks often have more colorful feathers than females.
Low water conditions and changing weather patterns have been blamed for dismal duck hunting seasons. Die-hard hunters who would never stoop to electronic lures in the past are trying out tech toys. These battery operated duck decoys create real movement, inviting the duck to look at you. You control the duck decoy with a remote control.
Some lures have been banned for being unsportsmanlike, so be careful before taking yours in the water. With its wings flapping realistically, your duck decoy may be in danger of being shot!
Legal in most states is the Wing Magic Decoy. You plant the magic model of the wing on a post where you want to draw the wild ducks. A string is attached to the wings, which when pulled creates a flapping and splashing motion. Ducks fall in love with this right and left.
As the shooting begins, the ducks become wary of flying close to the ground. The Wing Magic Decoy gives them a false sense of security from seeing other ducks, and BAM!
Best of luck in starting your duck decoy collection. John James Audubon’s last words were: “Go down the Long Pond side, Billy. I’ll go this way and we’ll get the ducks!”
