Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy Review

Let’s Dive into Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy

The Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy is designed to give hunters a realistic edge in the field. Crafted by Flambeau, a trusted name in outdoor gear, this decoy aims to attract coyotes with its lifelike appearance and movement. It features a faux fur tail with a wire frame for adjustable positioning and a bungee leg system for versatile setups.

For years, I’ve relied on a combination of calls and natural concealment to draw in coyotes. However, I needed a decoy that could add a visual element, especially in open terrain where coyotes are more cautious. I was particularly drawn to the Flambeau decoy because of its portability and realistic design.

Out of the box, the Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy is surprisingly lightweight, which is excellent for packing into remote hunting locations. The faux fur tail feels reasonably realistic, and the wire frame seems sturdy enough to withstand moderate wind. The bungee leg system initially appeared a bit flimsy, but I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.

Compared to some of the hard-bodied decoys I’ve seen, the Flambeau decoy seemed more practical for its lightweight and packable design. I chose it over a competitor’s inflatable decoy because of the faux fur tail and the bungee leg system, hoping they would add more realistic movement and versatility. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the portability was a huge plus, but the long-term durability remained to be seen.

Real-World Testing: Putting Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy during a late-season coyote hunt in the high desert of Nevada. The terrain was mostly open sagebrush with scattered juniper trees. The conditions were challenging, with a steady 15-20 mph wind and temperatures hovering around freezing.

The decoy was surprisingly effective in the wind, with the faux fur tail moving realistically and adding a touch of life to the setup. I positioned the decoy in a sitting position about 75 yards from my concealed location. It was easy to set up initially.

After about 30 minutes of calling, a coyote appeared on the horizon and immediately locked onto the decoy. It approached cautiously, giving me a clear shot at 200 yards. There were no initial issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy has held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, although the faux fur tail has started to show some matting. The bungee cords are still holding strong and haven’t lost their elasticity.

Maintaining the decoy is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I did notice that the faux fur tends to attract burrs and stickers, which can be a bit tedious to remove.

Compared to the old rag-stuffed decoy I used to use, this is miles ahead. It’s far easier to pack, set up, and looks significantly more realistic. The Flambeau decoy has proven to be a valuable addition to my coyote hunting arsenal, outperforming expectations in terms of portability and realism.

Breaking Down the Features of Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Flambeau is a well-known name in the hunting and outdoors industry, known for producing a wide range of decoys and gear. Their reputation for quality and affordability makes them a popular choice among hunters.
• Quantity: The package includes one (1) coyote decoy. This is standard for most coyote decoys, allowing for a singular, focused visual attraction.
• Condition: The decoy is brand new. This ensures optimal condition and longevity right out of the box.
• Faux Fur Tail with Wire Frame: The tail is designed to mimic the natural movement of a coyote’s tail in the wind. This adds realism and helps to draw the attention of wary coyotes.
• Bungee Leg System: This allows for flexible positioning of the decoy in sitting, standing, or laying positions. This adaptability is key for matching the decoy’s posture to the surrounding terrain and your calling strategy.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the decoy’s realism and versatility. The moving tail adds visual appeal, while the bungee leg system allows for varied presentations that can adapt to different hunting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy performs its job admirably. It effectively attracts coyotes by presenting a realistic visual target that complements calling efforts. The moving tail and adaptable positioning greatly enhance its effectiveness.

The decoy’s main strength lies in its portability and ease of use. The bungee leg system allows for quick setup in various terrains, and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry. One weakness is that the faux fur tail can be prone to matting and snagging burrs.

Overall, the Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy meets expectations, providing a significant advantage in coyote hunting by adding a realistic visual element.

Design & Ergonomics

The decoy’s build quality is decent for its price point. The materials are lightweight but seem durable enough for regular use. The faux fur tail is reasonably realistic, although it could be more refined.

The Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy is exceptionally user-friendly. The bungee leg system makes it easy to set up and reposition, and there’s no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the decoy should last for several seasons. The bungee cords and wire frame seem to be the most vulnerable components, but they can be easily replaced if needed.

Maintaining the decoy is straightforward. Keep it clean and dry to prevent mildew and decay. Periodically brush the faux fur tail to remove debris and prevent matting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product itself does not come with accessories or customization options. It is not designed to be modified with extra attachments.

One could potentially add scent attractants around the base of the decoy. Compatibility with accessories is not a key feature of this product.

Pros and Cons of Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy

Who Should Buy Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy?

The Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy is perfect for coyote hunters who need a portable, realistic, and versatile decoy without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in open terrain where visual attraction is crucial.

This product may not be suitable for hunters who primarily hunt in dense brush or those who require an extremely durable decoy for harsh environments.

Consider purchasing scent attractants designed for coyotes to further enhance the decoy’s effectiveness. Camouflage netting or burlap can also be used to blend the decoy with the surrounding terrain more seamlessly.

Conclusion on Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy

The Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy offers excellent value for its price. It’s a portable, realistic, and versatile decoy that significantly enhances coyote hunting success by adding a crucial visual element.

At around $100, the price is justified given its performance and portability. I would absolutely recommend it to any coyote hunter looking for an affordable and effective decoy option.

Don’t just rely on calls; add a visual dimension to your hunt. Invest in the Flambeau Master Series Lone Howler Coyote Decoy and experience the difference it can make!