when to use the jake decoy

[LilFridWV]

I've always heard arguemen ts from both sides when it comes to using a jake with a hen or jusy a hen. What do you guys think? Also, when is the time to not use decoys period? Good luck everyone this season!

[LilFridWV]

I used primos jake mobile decoy with the real fan and hen setup. Had a gobbler come charging the decoys and then turned and flew off. Couldn't explain it. Might try not using my DSD decoys a few times this season. Thanks man!

[sugarray]

I had 2 occasions where the Jake-Mobile kinda spooked birds, I got one and the other wouldn't come in.   I had the fan up and was using the fan supplied.  Now I have the fan holder and made my own jake fan.

B/C of this I will always make the Jake-Mobile look like the DSD jake with the tail straight back in a less dominant pose.

I like decoys as they give the turkeys something to look at that is not me.  Also, I haven't had them hurt a set up, hens anyway, and will continue to use them.  I think a single hen is called for in just almost any situation.  Just personal preference.  I have had instances where turkeys come looking for that hen and when they don't see her they go away and never get close enough for a shot.

[gatrapper]

I will say this, I have never had my jake mobile spook birds from a distance.  I have always had the birds come within shooting range before they started getting spooked.  Just depends though on the bird.  I have had jakes come roaring in to whoop its butt, but have had 3 year old birds run in to 40 yards and stop and act a little scared.  Just never know. 

[beech river game calls]

Just got back from the kansas opener with a bow. The first day i had two rio long beards coming in, they got to about 30 yds and saw our struter decoy and bolted out of there. The next morning i killed one over a half strut jake. I believe it all depends on the time of year, or if the bird you call in has recently been beat up by a bigger bird. I have had alot more luck hunting over a jake than a struter. Hope this helps.

[LilFridWV]

Yea we get to use the DSD jake this year. He appears to be less dominant which will bring turkeys in closer. Get fired up Zach! Less than 2 weeks and we get to use these decoys. Thanks for the iinput everyone. It helped a lot.

[attachment deleted by admin]