Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct Review

The Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned waterfowl hunter with over a decade under my waders, I’ve seen my share of decoy spreads. When I first encountered the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct, I was intrigued by Higdon’s claim of producing their “best-looking, most lifelike standard size decoys ever” in a filler pack. A filler pack at a value price point? That was a claim I needed to investigate. I was searching for an affordable way to bulk up my existing spread, adding realism without breaking the bank. My go-to decoys are incredibly realistic, but the cost prohibits me from fielding a large number of them.

The unboxing was straightforward. The decoys arrived in a simple, sturdy box, well-protected. My initial impression was positive; the paint job appeared much more detailed than I anticipated for the price. The decoys felt lightweight and packable, a huge plus for someone who often hikes into remote hunting spots. The forward-weighted keel was a thoughtful touch, promising good stability in the water.

Compared to my premium full-sized decoys, the Higdon decoys are noticeably smaller. This size difference was a key factor in my decision. I wanted something to supplement my spread, adding the illusion of greater numbers without the added weight and bulk of more full-sized decoys. I also considered a similar filler pack from Flambeau, but the reviews consistently praised Higdon’s realistic paint schemes, particularly the UV finish, and I am a firm believer in the importance of UV reflection in attracting ducks.

Initially, I was excited. The decoys looked promising and seemed like a great value. The realistic details and lightweight design were immediately appealing. I was cautiously optimistic that these Higdon decoys would be a valuable addition to my hunting arsenal.

Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct was on a late-season hunt on a moderately sized lake in central Minnesota. The weather was typical for that time of year: cold, with a light, drizzling rain and a slight breeze. I deployed the Higdon decoys around my primary spread of larger, more expensive decoys, focusing on placing them closer to shore in shallower water.

The decoys performed surprisingly well under less-than-ideal conditions. The weighted keels kept them upright and stable, even with the light chop on the water. The smaller size proved beneficial, creating a realistic “loafing” effect near the water’s edge. The short-stringing keel design allowed me to quickly adjust the decoy placement without excessive line tangling. Ducks responded well to the spread, committing readily to the landing zone. No different from my $40.00 per decoy spread!

I did notice that the paint seemed a bit more susceptible to scratching than my higher-end decoys. It wasn’t severe, but something to watch. The slight UV glare in the rain was also noticeable, although the Higdon decoys still looked better than some of the older, faded decoys in my spread.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct has held up reasonably well. I used these decoys on roughly 15 hunts, ranging from small ponds to larger lakes, in varying weather conditions.

The durability is acceptable for the price point. There are some visible scratches and minor paint chips, especially around the keels and heads. The plastic itself remains intact, with no cracks or breaks. I store the decoys in individual slotted bags to minimize rubbing and damage during transport.

Maintenance is simple; a quick rinse with water and a soft brush after each hunt is usually sufficient. I’ve applied a thin layer of matte clear coat to a few of the decoys to try and protect the paint, which seems to have helped slightly. These are non-foam filled, so sinking is possible if cracked, which is a drawback in freezing conditions if the breach goes unnoticed.

Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly decoys, the Higdon decoys perform admirably. They offer a significant improvement in realism and durability compared to older, cheaper models. While they don’t match the longevity of premium decoys, the value they provide is undeniable.

Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct

Specifications

• Type: Standard Size Mallard Floater Decoys. These are not oversized, but a slightly smaller than real life, making them excellent for packing.
• Quantity: 6 per pack (4 Resting Drakes and 2 Resting Hens). This is enough to make a small difference in an existing spread, or to start a new spread.
• Construction: Durable plastic with XHD Hyper-Feathering, a process using detailed carving and contrasting paint. Higdon paid attention to realism, as can be expected from an Official Decoy of Ducks Unlimited.
• Keel: Forward-weighted keel with a front clip for short-stringing. The weighted keel ensures they sit upright in the water, and the short-stringing clip makes for easy adjustments in the spread.
• Paint: Proprietary UV painting process to minimize unnatural glare. This process helps ensure that the decoys don’t appear unnaturally shiny when wet, attracting ducks.
• Special Features: Ducks Unlimited Official Licensed Product; Non-Foam Filled. A percentage of the purchase goes towards wetland conservation.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the decoy’s performance in the field. The size and weight affect packability, the keel design ensures stability, and the paint scheme influences realism. The UV paint, especially, is crucial for attracting ducks, as they can see UV light that humans cannot.

Performance & Functionality

The Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct performs its job effectively. They add visual appeal and realism to a decoy spread, helping to attract ducks.

• Strengths: Realistic paint scheme, lightweight, packable, stable in the water. The realistic details and ease of transport are significant advantages.
• Weaknesses: Paint durability, UV glare in certain conditions. The paint is a potential concern, and the lack of foam filling could be an issue if the plastic is breached.

Overall, the Higdon decoys meet my expectations for a value-priced filler pack. They aren’t perfect, but they deliver solid performance at a reasonable cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct is well-thought-out for its intended purpose. The smaller size is a deliberate choice, making them easier to carry and deploy.

• Build Quality: The plastic is durable enough for typical hunting conditions, and the paint application is generally good. The forward-weighted keel ensures that the decoys sit naturally in the water.
• User-Friendly: There is no learning curve; simply attach the decoy line and deploy them in your spread. The short-stringing keel design makes adjustments easy.

Durability & Maintenance

The lifespan of the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct will likely depend on how well they are cared for. With proper storage and occasional touch-ups, they should last for several seasons.

• Maintenance: Simple cleaning with water and a soft brush is all that’s needed. Applying a protective clear coat can help extend the life of the paint.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct does not come with any accessories beyond the standard weighted keel. Customization options are limited but not really needed.

• Decoy Line: Users will need to supply their own decoy line and weights. I would recommend using a tangle-free decoy line.
• Paint Touch-Up Kit: A paint touch-up kit could be beneficial for addressing scratches and chips. Some users might choose to flock the heads for added realism, but this is purely optional.

These decoys are compatible with most standard decoy accessories, such as clips, weights, and storage bags. The forward-weighted keel is compatible with most quick-clip decoy line systems.

Pros and Cons of Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct

Who Should Buy Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct?

The Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct is perfect for:

• Hunters on a budget who want to add realism to their spread.
• Walk-in hunters who need lightweight and packable decoys.
• Beginner hunters looking to build their initial decoy collection.
• Experienced hunters who want to supplement their existing spread with a filler pack.

Who should skip this product?

• Hunters who demand the highest level of durability and realism, regardless of cost.
• Hunters who primarily hunt in very shallow water where floating decoys may not be suitable.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Decoy line and weights.
• Individual slotted decoy bags for storage.
• Paint touch-up kit for minor repairs.

Conclusion on Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct

The Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct offers an excellent balance of realism, packability, and affordability. While the paint durability could be improved, the overall value is undeniable. For the price of $34.49, you get six well-designed decoys that will enhance your hunting spread.

The price is absolutely justified. These Higdon decoys provide a significant upgrade over cheaper, less realistic options, without the hefty price tag of premium decoys. You won’t be disappointed in the overall look and performance of these decoys.

I would personally recommend the Higdon Standard Mallard Filler Pack Regular 6/ct to any hunter looking to add numbers and realism to their spread without breaking the bank. These decoys are a solid investment that will pay off with more ducks in the bag. Enhance your spread and increase your success this season – grab a pack today!