To fool field-bound ducks and geese, you need just the right decoys. Here’s how to choose

WINDSOCK DECOYS

Windsock decoys are essentially bags, typically constructed of lightweight and durable Tyvek material. Some are white or black, while others are dyed to replicate the full colours of the ducks and geese they’re meant to resembe. Generally, they’re the size of a small goose, open on one end to catch the wind and inflate. They have either a metal or plastic stake through the front end that gets pushed into the ground to hold them in place, allowing them to freely bounce and flutter like ducks or geese waddling in a stubble field.

Windsocks can come with or without heads, and some winged models can be placed on higher stakes or poles to make them resemble landing birds. While most hunters use commercially available windsocks, you can create their own.

By design, these decoys create a lot of motion when deployed. That makes them a good choice for hunting snow geese and ducks, which often feed aggressively in large groups as they continually move forward in stubble fields. Windsocks can also be used when hunting Canada geese, particularly lesser Canadas. As well, they’re a good option when landowners don’t want you to drive into their fields, or when the ground conditions prevent you from entering the field with a vehicle.

PROS

Along with resembling live birds, windsocks are a very cost-effective option—it’s possible to create a large decoy spread without investing a lot of money. They are also quick and easy to set up and retrieve, and since several dozen can be stored in a plastic tub or specialized satchel, they’re easily transported.

CONS

Of all the decoys, windsocks are the least realistic. If there’s too much wind, they’ll flap unnaturally back and forth. When there’s not enough wind, on the other hand, they’ll lay flat on the ground. If the ground is hard or frozen, meanwhile, windsocks are next to impossible to install. They also tend to be noisy, even with perfect winds. And since windsocks constantly move back and forth in the breeze, their tail ends can develop holes from rubbing on the ground or stubble.