The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy Made a Bold First Impression
Dove hunting can be a game of patience and deception, where any edge can mean the difference between a limit and a long, hot day with little to show for it. That’s what led me to the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy. After years of relying on static decoys with mixed results, I was intrigued by the promise of motion and realism that this product offered, and I wanted to see if it could live up to the hype.
Unboxing the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy was a straightforward affair. The decoy itself looked surprisingly realistic, with detailed feather patterns and a natural dove posture. The two-piece support pole seemed sturdy enough for most ground conditions.
I’ve used other motion decoys, like the Lucky Duck Rapid Flyer Dove, and even some DIY contraptions. However, the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy stood out due to its self-contained battery compartment and what appeared to be a more refined wing motion system. I picked it over others primarily for its ease of use and the reputation of the MOJO brand. My initial excitement was tempered with a slight apprehension, wondering if its seemingly simple design would translate into consistent performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy was at a sunflower field in central Texas, a known hotspot for mourning doves. The weather was hot and dry, with a slight breeze. The field was fairly open.
Setting up was quick and easy. I simply screwed the two pole sections together, inserted the breast peg of the decoy into the square tubing on the pole, and stuck the spike into the ground. I switched it on, and the wings began their rhythmic flapping. Almost immediately, I noticed doves changing course and heading towards my setup. Within the first hour, I had already bagged several birds, some even attempting to land on the decoy itself, which echoed the experience of other user feedback I’d seen.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full dove season of using the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy, it has proven to be a reliable addition to my hunting gear. While the plastic body shows a few scratches from being transported in my decoy bag, the motor and wing mechanism continue to function flawlessly. I have used the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy in light rain with no negative impact.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down after each hunt to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my older static decoys, the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy has significantly improved my success rate. It outperforms them in almost every scenario.
Breaking Down the Features of Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy
Specifications
Realistic Dove Body: The redesigned body with its tapered breast peg features highly intricate detail and a natural dove posture. This realism is crucial for attracting wary doves.
Dual Shaft Direct Drive System: MOJO’s famous system ensures smooth and consistent wing motion. This system is at the heart of the decoy’s effectiveness.
Two-Piece Support Pole: This feature allows for easy transportation and setup in various terrains. The steel spike at the bottom ensures a secure placement.
Internal Battery Compartment: The decoy is powered by 4 AA batteries (not included) housed inside the body, eliminating the hassle of external wires. This is a significant improvement over older models.
Long Battery Life: Up to 23.5 continuous hours of use on a single set of batteries. This is essential for long days in the field.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy’s performance and ease of use in the field. The realistic body and wing motion attract doves, while the sturdy construction and long battery life ensure that it performs reliably throughout the hunt.
Performance & Functionality
The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy performs its primary job – attracting doves – exceptionally well. Doves are drawn to the realistic wing motion, bringing them close enough for ethical shots. Its effectiveness is most noticeable on days with little to no wind.
The main strength is its ability to draw doves in from a distance. Its weakness is its susceptibility to strong winds, which can disrupt the wing motion and make it appear unnatural. It definitely exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy boasts a realistic design that closely mimics a mourning dove. The materials used, primarily durable plastic, keep the weight down. This makes it easy to carry multiple decoys into the field.
Its user-friendly design makes setup and operation a breeze. There’s no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy should last for several seasons. The plastic body is durable enough to withstand normal hunting conditions, but it’s important to protect it from extreme impacts.
Maintenance is minimal: a quick cleaning after each use and occasional lubrication of the motor (if needed). It is easy to maintain and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy comes with the two-piece support pole. There are no official customization options offered by MOJO. However, some hunters choose to paint the decoy to match local dove populations or add reflective tape for increased visibility.
The decoy is compatible with aftermarket decoy bags and pole extensions. These help in transporting and positioning the decoy in different environments.
Pros and Cons of Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy
Pros
- Highly Effective: Draws doves in close for easy shots.
- Realistic Design: Mimics a natural dove, increasing its effectiveness.
- Long Battery Life: Provides up to 23.5 hours of continuous use.
- Easy to Use: Simple setup and operation.
- Portable: Lightweight and easy to transport.
Cons
- Requires 4 AA batteries (not included).
- Susceptible to strong winds.
Who Should Buy Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy?
The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy is perfect for dove hunters of all skill levels looking to improve their success rate. It’s especially beneficial for those hunting in areas with high hunting pressure or on days with minimal wind.
This product may not be necessary for hunters who consistently limit out using traditional static decoys or those who primarily hunt in extremely windy conditions.
Must-have accessories include high-quality AA batteries and a durable decoy bag for transport. A pole extension can also be useful for raising the decoy above tall vegetation.
Conclusion on Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy
The Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy is a valuable tool for any serious dove hunter. Its realistic design, long battery life, and ease of use make it a standout product in the crowded decoy market.
At a price of $26.99, the value is definitely justified. The increased success rate and convenience make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Mojo VooDoo Dove Decoy to anyone looking to up their dove hunting game. It’s a game-changer that will have you bringing home more birds this season. Give it a try and experience the difference for yourself!