Imagine this: you’re deep in the elk woods, the crisp autumn air fills your lungs, and then you hear it – the distant bugle of a bull elk. Your heart pounds, but you know that to get that shot, you need more than just skill. You need a secret weapon. But with so many elk decoys out there, how do you pick the one that will actually bring that majestic bull within range?
Choosing the right elk decoy can feel like navigating a maze. You want something that looks real, something that elk will believe. But with all the different brands, materials, and designs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure if you’re spending your hard-earned money on something that will truly make a difference in your hunt. You might worry about it being too flimsy, or maybe not realistic enough to fool a wary bull.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down what makes a great elk decoy for 2021. You’ll learn what features to look for, the pros and cons of different types, and how to choose the best one for your hunting style. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident and ready to make a smart decision that will boost your chances of a successful elk hunt.
Our Top 5 Elk Decoys 2021 Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Montana Decoy Eichler Elk | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Elk Decoys 2021 Detailed Reviews
1. Montana Decoy Eichler Elk
Rating: 9.5/10
The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is a game-changer for any hunter looking to improve their elk hunting success. This decoy brings realistic elk to your hunting ground. It’s built using a real elk picture, making it look incredibly lifelike. This realism helps fool even the wariest elk.
What We Like:
- It comes with a DVD that shows you how to use decoys and even includes real hunting footage. This is super helpful for learning.
- You can set it up in two ways: using leg poles for a sturdy stand or the Eichler’s string hanging system. This gives you options for different terrains.
- The decoy folds down to a small size of 19″ X 12″. This makes it easy to carry in your backpack.
- Its lightweight design means you won’t get tired carrying it.
- The realistic image is a big plus for attracting elk.
What Could Be Improved:
- The setup might take a little practice at first.
- While it’s packable, some hunters might prefer an even smaller folded size.
Overall, the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is a fantastic tool for any serious elk hunter. It offers realistic visuals and versatile setup options, helping you get closer to that trophy bull.
2. RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy
Rating: 9.1/10
The RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy is a fantastic tool for any hunter. It’s designed to help you get closer to elk. This decoy is lightweight and folds up easily. You can carry it on every hunt without it being a burden. Its size is just right. This means you can see it better. It also gives you an advantage when you are stalking. This decoy works well all season long. It doesn’t matter when you are hunting. A portion of the money from each sale goes to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF). This helps support elk conservation efforts.
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What We Like:
- It folds up easily, making it simple to pack.
- It’s light enough to carry on any hunt.
- Its size provides great visibility for elk.
- It offers increased stalking advantages.
- It’s effective throughout the entire hunting season.
- A portion of the proceeds supports the RMEF.
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What Could Be Improved:
- While lightweight, some hunters might prefer an even lighter option for extreme backcountry trips.
- The effectiveness can vary slightly depending on elk behavior and herd dynamics.
This RMEF Cow Elk Decoy is a solid choice for hunters looking to improve their success rate. It’s a practical and supportive purchase for elk enthusiasts.
3. Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy
Rating: 8.9/10
The Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy is a game-changer for serious elk hunters. It’s designed to help you get closer to those elusive bulls, especially if you love exploring the wild, far from crowded hunting spots. This decoy lets you think like an elk and move like one too.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile. You can set it up in many ways. Use the included leg pole, your own trekking pole, or even attach it to a tree.
- It packs down really small. This makes it easy to carry in your backpack when you’re hiking deep into the backcountry.
- It looks incredibly real. The decoy is made from a picture of a real elk, so it will fool even the wariest animals.
- It’s perfect for bowhunters. If you want to get away from roads and other hunters, this is the tool for you.
What Could Be Improved:
- It relies on other gear. You’ll need a trekking pole or a suitable tree to set it up in some configurations.
- Durability in harsh weather could be a concern. While it’s built tough, extreme conditions might test its limits over time.
This decoy offers hunters a unique advantage for pursuing elk in remote areas. Its portability and realistic design make it a valuable addition to any serious hunter’s gear.
4. Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk
Rating: 9.4/10
The Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk is a game-changer for any hunter. This decoy is designed to make elk feel safe and comfortable, drawing them closer. Its realistic look and feeding pose are key to its success. You can trust this decoy to help you get that perfect shot.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile and works really well.
- The feeding pose makes elk feel confident.
- It looks just like a real elk because of its 3D photo quality.
- Call-shy elk will have a hard time telling it’s not real.
- Setting it up and taking it down is fast and simple.
- It folds up small, so it’s easy to carry in your pack.
- The tough polyester fabric can handle bad weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- The feeding pose is great, but sometimes more variety in poses could be helpful for different hunting situations.
- While durable, adding some extra reinforcement in high-stress areas could make it even more long-lasting.
The Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk is an excellent tool for any elk hunter. It offers realism and ease of use that will boost your success in the field.
The Ultimate Elk Decoy Buying Guide
Why Use an Elk Decoy?
Elk decoys help hunters. They make elk think another elk is nearby. This can bring curious elk closer. It makes hunting more successful. This guide helps you pick the best elk decoy for 2021.
1. Key Features to Look For
Realistic Appearance
The most important feature is how real it looks. Good decoys have lifelike colors. They have accurate body shapes. They mimic a real elk’s posture. Look for details like antlers and tails. A decoy that looks real fools elk better.
Portability and Setup
You need to carry your decoy. It should be lightweight. It should fold or pack down small. Setting it up in the field should be quick. Easy setup means less time wasted. You can move to a better spot faster.
Durability
Elk hunting can be tough. Your decoy needs to last. It should handle wind and weather. It shouldn’t rip or tear easily. A strong decoy saves you money in the long run.
Stability
The decoy must stand up well. It should not tip over easily. Strong stakes or a good base help. A wobbly decoy looks fake. It will scare elk away.
Size and Pose
Consider the type of elk you are hunting. A bull decoy might be larger. A cow decoy could be smaller. Different poses work for different situations. A feeding pose looks calm. A standing pose is alert. Some decoys offer interchangeable poses.
2. Important Materials
Fabric and Construction
Most decoys use durable fabrics. These fabrics resist tears. They also stand up to sun and rain. High-quality stitching holds seams together. Look for reinforced areas. These areas get a lot of stress.
Frame and Stakes
The frame gives the decoy its shape. It needs to be strong but light. Aluminum or strong plastic frames are common. Stakes anchor the decoy to the ground. Metal stakes are best. They are strong and won’t bend easily.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good Quality
- Detailed painting and realistic eyes improve quality.
- Strong, flexible materials make a decoy last longer.
- Easy-to-use stakes and poles improve user experience.
- Lightweight designs make carrying easier.
Poor Quality
- Flat, dull colors make a decoy look fake.
- Cheap fabric rips easily.
- Flimsy frames collapse in the wind.
- Difficult setup wastes valuable hunting time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Ease of Use in the Field
Hunters need decoys that work. Easy setup is crucial. You don’t want to struggle with poles in the cold. Quick assembly lets you hunt sooner. A decoy that is easy to take down is also good. Packing up should be fast.
Effective for Calling
Decoys work best with calls. Hunters use elk calls to attract them. A decoy adds a visual element. It makes the elk feel more secure. They think they are seeing another elk. This makes them curious.
Different Hunting Scenarios
You can use decoys in many ways. Place them in open meadows. Put them near water sources. Use them in the timber. A single decoy can work. Multiple decoys can create a small herd. This is very effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of an elk decoy?
A: An elk decoy’s main purpose is to trick real elk into thinking another elk is present. This makes them curious and can bring them closer to your hunting spot.
Q: Are elk decoys effective for all types of elk hunting?
A: Yes, elk decoys are effective for both bull and cow elk hunting. Different decoys are designed for different targets.
Q: How do I set up an elk decoy properly?
A: You typically set up an elk decoy by inserting poles into the decoy body and then staking it firmly into the ground. Make sure it stands tall and looks natural.
Q: What is the best material for an elk decoy?
A: Durable fabrics like ripstop nylon or polyester are best. They are lightweight and resist tears. Strong frames and metal stakes are also important.
Q: How important is the realism of an elk decoy?
A: Realism is very important. Lifelike colors, accurate shape, and natural posture help fool elk. A fake-looking decoy will scare them away.
Q: Can I use an elk decoy in windy conditions?
A: Yes, but you need a stable decoy. Look for decoys with strong stakes and a good base. Proper setup is key to prevent it from falling over.
Q: How do I transport my elk decoy?
A: Most decoys are designed to be portable. They fold or roll up into a compact size. They are usually lightweight enough to carry in a backpack.
Q: Do I need to use elk calls with a decoy?
A: While not strictly required, using elk calls with a decoy greatly increases its effectiveness. The calls attract elk, and the decoy provides a visual confirmation.
Q: How many elk decoys should I use?
A: One decoy can be effective. However, using multiple decoys can create the illusion of a small herd, which is often more attractive to elk.
Q: Where is the best place to set up an elk decoy?
A: The best spot depends on elk behavior. Open meadows, near water sources, or along travel corridors are good places. Observe the area for signs of elk activity.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.