Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk Review

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk Made a Bold First Impression

As an avid waterfowl hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of decoys. When I first laid eyes on the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk, I was immediately struck by their realistic paint scheme and the promise of rugged durability. I needed a set of decoys that could withstand the rigors of hunting on rough terrain and in unpredictable weather, and the Higdon decoys seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

My old spread was starting to show its age, with chipped paint and a general lack of “pop” that I believe was costing me birds. I considered replacing them with flocked decoys or even a more elaborate motorized setup. The reports of the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk’s realistic appearance, and ability to handle multiple shots from careless hunters swayed me towards these.

Upon unboxing, I was pleased with the overall quality. The decoys felt substantial in hand, a reassuring sign of the foam filling, and the paint job was surprisingly detailed. The bodies were perfectly sized.

Compared to cheaper, all-plastic decoys I’ve used in the past, the Higdon decoys definitely felt like a step up in terms of construction and realism. I also looked at some GHG Pro-Grade Mallards and Avian-X Topflight Mallards. I chose the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk because of their reputation for durability and the fact that they are foam-filled, making them virtually unsinkable.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I was excited about the potential for these decoys to improve my spread, I also knew that the true test would come in the field. Would the paint hold up? Would they ride realistically in the water? Only time would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk was on a frigid morning on the Chesapeake Bay. The wind was howling, and the water was choppy. I strategically placed the Higdon decoys amongst my existing spread, paying close attention to their position relative to the wind and my blind.

The decoys handled the rough conditions admirably. They rode realistically in the water, with a natural bobbing motion that mimicked live ducks. Several flocks of mallards gave the spread a good look, with one group committing and providing a successful hunt.

The only slight issue I noticed was that the keels seemed a bit shallow for such rough water, causing the decoys to occasionally tip slightly in the strongest gusts. However, this was a minor concern that didn’t significantly impact their overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of hunting, the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk have proven to be incredibly durable. Despite being subjected to everything from freezing rain to accidental bumps against rocks and ice, the paint has held up remarkably well. There are only a few minor scratches and scuffs, which is to be expected.

Cleaning the decoys is also a breeze. A quick rinse with water and a scrub with a soft brush is all it takes to remove mud and debris. I’ve found them incredibly easy to maintain.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper decoys, the Higdon decoys have been a game-changer. They consistently outperform my old spread. This provides a more realistic presentation that has undoubtedly contributed to more successful hunts.

Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk

Specifications

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk features several noteworthy specifications that contribute to their performance and durability:

• Full Size: These decoys are designed to mimic the size of mature mallards. This contributes to a realistic appearance that can attract wary birds.
• Foam Filled: The foam filling ensures that these decoys are virtually unsinkable. This is a crucial feature for hunters who hunt in deep water or areas with strong currents.
• Realistic Paint Scheme: The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk boasts a highly detailed paint job. The intricate feather patterns and lifelike colors make them incredibly convincing.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting, these decoys are made from high-quality materials that resist cracking and fading.
• Weighted Keel: Each decoy features a weighted keel. This keel helps to keep the decoy upright in the water, even in windy conditions.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the decoys’ effectiveness in the field. A realistic appearance, coupled with durability and stability in the water, are essential for attracting ducks and ensuring that your spread looks convincing.

Performance & Functionality

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk performs exceptionally well in its primary job: attracting ducks. The realistic paint scheme and lifelike size make them incredibly effective at drawing birds in, even in areas with heavy hunting pressure.

The main strength of these decoys is their durability. The foam filling and rugged construction ensure that they can withstand years of use and abuse.

A minor weakness is the keel design, which could be slightly deeper for better stability in very rough water. However, this is a small issue that doesn’t significantly detract from their overall performance. They definitely meet, and even slightly exceed, my expectations for a high-quality decoy.

Design & Ergonomics

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk features a well-thought-out design. The decoys are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to carry and deploy.

The paint scheme is incredibly realistic, with attention to detail that is sure to impress even the most discerning hunters. The slightly shallow keel design does cause a slight learning curve in rougher waters, but they will quickly become second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk are built to last. Their foam-filled construction and durable materials ensure that they can withstand years of use and abuse.

Maintaining them is also incredibly simple. A quick rinse with water and a soft brush is all it takes to keep them looking their best.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk does not come with any specific accessories. However, hunters can customize them with different rigging systems and decoy weights to suit their specific hunting conditions.

These decoys are compatible with most standard decoy cords and weights. These offer a wide range of customization options to tailor the spread to their individual needs.

Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk

Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk?

The Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand durability and realism from their decoys. Hunters who hunt in areas with deep water or rough conditions will particularly appreciate the foam-filled construction and rugged design. These are perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their spread.

Hunters on a tight budget or those who only hunt occasionally might find the price point to be a bit high. They could also skip this product.

Must-have accessories include high-quality decoy cord and weights to ensure that the decoys are properly rigged and positioned. Adding a jerk rig system can also enhance the realism of the spread by creating movement and attracting attention.

Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk

Overall, the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk is an excellent investment for any serious waterfowl hunter. Their realistic appearance, durable construction, and unsinkable design make them a top-tier choice for attracting ducks and ensuring a successful hunt.

While the price point is higher than basic plastic decoys, the added durability and performance justify the cost. The benefits make these decoys an indispensable part of any serious waterfowl hunter’s arsenal.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk to anyone looking to upgrade their decoy spread. They are a reliable and effective tool that will help you bring more ducks to your blind. Invest in the Higdon Outdoors Full Size Mallard Foam Filled 6pk today and experience the difference that quality decoys can make!