I'm no pro, but.......

[Weasel]

Recently a member asked if any of the experienced guys had any tips. I've been calling since the late 60's. I still learn something or at least think of new ideas nearly every time I go calling. It's difficult for me to come up with "tips" on the spot because it's just natural and normal for me to do things the way I do.

Yesterday I received a copy of Predator Xtreme in the mail. Right on the cover was printed "Eyes to the sky - Using feathers to take more fur". Well DUH!!!! I thought everybody did this. I read the article and thought I would add my two cents.

Many years ago I used a crow decoy, but stopped using it as it is a collector item now. I've used feathers or a patch of fur for as long as I can remember. I'll include a couple of photos of what I often use now.

The magpie decoys give approaching predators confidence. Playing magpie, crow, or blue-jay sounds on the Foxpro brings flocks of birds. They often are they tip off that a predator is approaching because they raise a ruckus and divebomb the critters as they come in. I really like using feathers on a stick. I use two feathers attached in a way that they move and spin easily in a breeze. They are a constant indicator as to which way the wind is blowing.

Now for a tip that I haven't ever heard of others using. I use those small diaphragm bird whistles. You can make a WIDE range of sounds with them. They make excellent, hands free coaxers. Sometimes I use a "bottle cap" call as a primary call or coaxer.







Here is a closeup of a method to attach the feathers to a stick so they don't windup around the stick. This way they rotate easily and always show which way the wind is blowing.

[Possumal]

Good tips, Weasel.

[Jingles]

Glad to see someone else that uses snap swivels and while I think of it
Weasel have you ever mounted your magpie decoys on springs? with the wind they sometimes do that head bobbing thing magpies do to add even more reality to them..

[Weasel]

Originally Posted by Jingles

Glad to see someone else that uses snap swivels and while I think of it
Weasel have you ever mounted your magpie decoys on springs? with the wind they sometimes do that head bobbing thing magpies do to add even more reality to them..

Jingle, That's a great idea. The black and white feathers add movement and indicate wind direction, but I have three magpie decoys. I just checked the garage and I do have a long spring that I think I can cut and use on two decoys. PERFECT tip!!!!Thanks for adding to this thread.

[SWAMPBUCK10PT]

Thanks for the Great tip's Weasel & Jingle's------Never heard of the bottle cap call before though My sister use's large Oak acorn tops to make a whistle---60+ years of call'en and I learned something new again THANKS---Going to try the bottle cap see if I can Make it work--------svb