Let’s Talk About Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard
Duck hunting is more than just a sport; it’s a tradition. And like any tradition, it requires the right tools, and that starts with a convincing decoy spread. Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard promises to deliver exactly that: oversized realism and legendary durability.
I’ve spent countless mornings shivering in blinds, watching ducks flare off spreads that just didn’t cut it. I needed decoys that could withstand the rigors of hard use, look convincing even up close, and offer that crucial edge in visibility, especially on overcast days when mallards are extra cautious. The Higdon Outdoors decoys seemed like a perfect fit, combining the proven durability of foam filling with realistic details and oversized profiles.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the size of these decoys. They are definitely “magnum,” offering a significant visual impact. The paint job seemed well-executed, with a variety of postures adding to the realism. Compared to my older, cheaper decoys (mostly the standard plastic variety from other manufacturers), these Higdon Outdoors floaters felt noticeably more robust and well-made. I chose these over other foam-filled options based on Higdon Outdoors’ reputation for durable paint and the variety of head positions included in the pack.
My first impression was definitely excitement. These decoys looked like they could seriously up my game, providing the visibility and realism needed to bring in more birds. Hopefully, my future hunts will be more successful!
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters was on a late-season hunt in a flooded timber area of Arkansas. The weather was typical for that time of year: cold, damp, and overcast.
The decoys performed admirably in the conditions. The weighted keels made for quick and easy deployment, even in the knee-deep water and tangled vegetation. There was no noticeable glare, even when wet, which is a common problem with cheaper decoys. The mallards seemed to respond well to the spread, with several flocks committing to land within easy shooting range.
I didn’t experience any major issues during the first use. It did take me a little time to get used to the oversized profile when placing them in the water. I ended up needing slightly longer decoy lines in some spots to allow more natural movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Higdon Outdoors decoys have held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being thrown in and out of boats, dragged through mud, and exposed to freezing temperatures.
Cleaning is straightforward, usually just requiring a quick rinse with water to remove mud or debris. The foam filling has prevented any leaks or sinking, a common issue with hollow plastic decoys after a few seasons.
Compared to my previous experiences with less expensive decoys, the Higdon Outdoors floaters have been a significant upgrade. The durability and realism are far superior, leading to more consistent success in the field. They’ve definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard
Specifications
The Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard 6-pack boasts impressive specifications designed for serious duck hunters. Each decoy is oversized, providing enhanced visibility and realism.
The decoys are foam-filled, ensuring they remain afloat even if punctured. The detailed paint scheme utilizes Higdon Outdoors’ proprietary UV painting process. This reduces unnatural glare and highlights individual feather details. They are multi-colored, and the drakes feature soft, deep green flocked heads for added realism. The weighted keel design allows for easy setup and short stringing in shallow water. The set includes 2 Upright Drakes, 1 Low Head Drake, 1 Drake Feeder, 1 Upright Hen, and 1 Hen Feeder.
The combination of magnum size and realistic details makes these decoys highly effective at attracting ducks from long distances. The foam filling guarantees longevity, while the weighted keel simplifies deployment. The flocked heads and varied postures add a lifelike element that fools even wary birds.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard decoys perform exceptionally well in the field. The lifelike appearance and varied postures are highly effective at convincing ducks to commit to the spread.
The decoys float naturally in the water, even in choppy conditions, and the weighted keels prevent them from tipping over. One slight weakness is that the flocked heads require a bit more care to keep clean. But overall, they meet and exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Higdon Outdoors decoys is outstanding. The foam filling provides a solid, durable feel. The paint is well-applied and resistant to chipping. The varied head positions add to the realism.
The decoys are user-friendly and require no special setup or maintenance. Even a novice hunter can quickly deploy them and achieve a convincing spread.
Durability & Maintenance
These decoys are built to last. The foam filling prevents sinking. The durable paint job resists fading and chipping. With proper care, these decoys should provide many seasons of reliable use.
Maintenance is simple, generally only requiring a quick rinse to remove mud or debris. The removable swivel heads (on Upright and Low head decoys) make cleaning and storage easier.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard set doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the six decoys themselves. However, there are no customization options.
The decoys are compatible with standard decoy cords and weights. I have also used them effectively with motion decoys to create a more dynamic spread.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The foam filling ensures these decoys will last season after season.
- Realistic Appearance: The detailed paint scheme and flocked heads provide a lifelike appearance that fools wary ducks.
- Magnum Size: The oversized profile enhances visibility, attracting ducks from longer distances.
- Weighted Keel: The weighted keel allows for quick and easy deployment in various water depths.
- Variety of Postures: The included postures adds realism to the spread, mimicking natural duck behavior.
Cons
- Flocked Heads Require Extra Care: The flocked heads need more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance.
- Higher Price Point: These decoys are more expensive than basic plastic models.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard?
The Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters are perfect for serious duck hunters who demand durability, realism, and performance. They are also a great choice for those who hunt in areas with heavy cover or choppy water, where visibility is crucial.
Hunters on a tight budget or those who only hunt occasionally might find these decoys to be overkill. Also, those who prioritize lightweight gear for long carries might prefer smaller, lighter options.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality decoy cord and weights to ensure secure placement. Also, a decoy bag specifically designed for oversized decoys will protect them during transport and storage.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard
The Higdon Outdoors 17053 Magnum Mallard Foam Filled Floaters Multi Color Mallard are an excellent investment for serious duck hunters. Their durability, realism, and visibility make them a worthwhile upgrade over cheaper, less effective decoys.
While the price is higher than basic plastic models, the long-term value and improved hunting success justify the cost.
I would definitely recommend these decoys to anyone looking to enhance their spread and bring in more birds. If you are looking to up your duck hunting game, then these are an excellent choice. Invest in a set today, and get ready for more successful hunts!