Need Advice – here is the scenario

I have an archery only permit starting the 14th here in MN. I’ve got permission to hunt some land adjacent to a small flock of birds. They are pretty predictable so far. They are down from the roost about 5:45 every morning in the same field. Until last weekend of course. They moved about 600 yards west.

Anyway, they are back to the normal routine this week. There are two toms in this group. One bird is definitely the dominant bird as he is always close to the girls. The other guy stands around strutting about 35 yards from the pack.

I realize a million things can happen between now and the 14th. However, I’m looking for suggestions about decoys. I’m thinking of putting out two hens and a jake the first morning. Leave my tom decoy in the bag. See how that “loner” bird reacts.

My guess, he is sick of getting his kicked by the old boy. However he may not fear the jake. I’ve read quite a bit of supporting evidence that late breeding season toms simply are tired of fighting.

So, do I deploy the jake? Maybe a single hen?

Thanks for the advice!!!

Experience from last week tells me to leave the dekes in the bag all together. Maybe go with a hen. We had a lone tom that was very weary of dekes…even just the jake decoy. He had to battle two toms that hung out together in the same field he did. Danielle ended up getting that tom last week but he was trying to again skirt their set up. Maybe if he sees just the hen decoy he might just come in. Good luck on your bow season!

You will have to base your decision on the mood of the turkeys. We have had them coming running right in at times, while other times they hang up or just do not pay any attention to the decoys. I am more and more reluctant to use them. It’s a rush when they do commit and come in, but can be heart breaking when they turn and leave. Good luck!

I was really hoping to do a trial run last weekend, until the birds moved. I’m in Skonny this weekend and I don’t want to mess with them next week. Oh well, I’ll see what others say and make a gut decision come the 14th.

Good luck Kooty!!!

set up where they exit the field,set a hen dek in a clearing at the edge of the woods not more than 10 yards into the woods,call just enough to let them know where you are,set yourself up so you can shoot out into the field,it can be a waiting game,good luck!