Using Decoys in Wooded Areas - by Ron Toth

As many of you know, most decoy use involves being in or around fields. But, what if you’re in a wooded area? Here are a few things to look for so you can come up with a decoy game plan.

Big Timber Woods

This is a mature tree area where the undergrowth is limited. These areas are normally wide open and offer a great decoy setup. Pick an area on the high side of the ridge where it would be easy for the incoming bird to notice your decoys. I learned a long time ago to kneel and position your eyes in the middle of the decoy’s body. This will allow you to see little hills or other obstructions that might hide your decoys from an incoming bird.

Gas or Power Lines

These are some of my favorite areas to hunt spring gobblers. I’ve found out through my years of hunting turkeys that many times these areas are also used as roosting areas, which means that with a proper setup could result in a quick morning harvest. If birds are roosting it’s very important to allow yourself to get in position way before the break of day so you do not spook the roosted birds.

Old Logging Roads

This is also one of my favorite places to hunt spring gobblers for many reasons. Roads allow me to move quickly and quietly through the woods, and these are also the kind of the places that turkeys love to use for dusting and feeding on grit which they need to digest their daily food intake. I like to set the decoys on the road and sit above the road for a better view.

When using decoys, always remember - safety first!

- Ron Toth