First Thoughts on the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING is a unique product from Montana Decoy, designed to mimic a breeding hen, enticing toms during the spring turkey season. Its lightweight and compact design, coupled with the lifelike photo, promises an effective and portable hunting aid. I was intrigued by the promise of a highly realistic and easily transportable decoy.
My main problem was finding a lightweight, highly portable decoy that didn’t sacrifice realism. Carrying multiple hard-bodied decoys into the woods can be a back-breaker, especially when covering a lot of ground. The promise of this decoy collapsing down to a small size was extremely appealing.
Unboxing the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING revealed a surprisingly small, folded package. The material felt durable and the photo-realistic print quality was immediately impressive.
Compared to full-bodied plastic decoys I’ve used in the past, like those from Flambeau or Avian-X, the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING offers a drastically different approach. It’s far lighter and more portable than either, though it lacks the rigid 3D form. Ultimately, I chose it for its unmatched portability and the positive reputation of Montana Decoy products.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The realism of the printed image was excellent, but I was curious to see how well it would hold its shape in the field and how toms would react to it.
Real-World Testing: Putting MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING during the opening week of turkey season in the rolling hills of central Missouri. The weather was cool and damp, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. I set the decoy up in a small clearing near a known strutting zone, alongside a Jake decoy.
Despite the damp conditions, the decoy maintained its shape fairly well, although it did require some adjustments to the support rod to keep it upright in the soft ground. No birds came to the setup this first morning, but it was quiet. I suspected the persistent drizzle kept toms tucked away.
The ease of use was impressive. It took only a few seconds to unfold and set up, a welcome change from the bulkier decoys I’m used to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across various terrains and weather conditions, the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING has proven to be surprisingly durable. The printed fabric shows no signs of fading or tearing, despite being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional brush with thorny vegetation. The support rod has bent slightly, but it is easily straightened.
Cleaning is a breeze – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes mud and dirt. Storing it is just as simple. Simply collapse and roll it up.
Compared to my experiences with inflatable decoys, which often leak or puncture, the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING has been a far more reliable option. While it doesn’t offer the same level of three-dimensionality as a hard-bodied decoy, its portability and durability more than make up for it.
Breaking Down the Features of MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING
Specifications
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING boasts some impressive specifications for such a portable decoy. It weighs only 8 ounces, making it virtually unnoticeable in a hunting vest. Its dimensions, when unfolded, are 31” x 9”, presenting a realistic hen profile.
When folded, it collapses to a compact 10” x 6” package for easy transport. The lifelike photo, taken of a hen just before breeding, is a key feature designed to trigger a tom’s breeding instincts. This photo-realistic print sets it apart from cartoonish decoys.
These specifications are critical for turkey hunting. The lightweight and compact design allow for run-and-gun style hunting, while the realistic image maximizes the decoy’s effectiveness in drawing in wary toms.
Performance & Functionality
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING performs its primary function – attracting toms – reasonably well. While I haven’t experienced explosive results every time, I have observed toms responding positively to its presence, often closing the distance and displaying. The decoy works well in conjunction with other decoys.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and portability. Its main weakness is its lack of three-dimensionality.
Overall, the decoy meets my expectations for a lightweight, highly portable option. It isn’t a replacement for a full-bodied decoy in every situation, but it’s an excellent choice when mobility is paramount.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commendable, with durable materials and a well-executed photo print. The decoy’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry and deploy.
The design is inherently user-friendly. There’s no complex setup or assembly required.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING should last for several seasons. The durable fabric and simple construction minimize the risk of damage.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after use is all that’s typically required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING comes with a simple support rod for propping it up. There aren’t any customization options, nor are any needed.
It is inherently compatible with any other turkey hunting accessories, such as calls, vests, and blinds. Its small size allows for easy integration into any existing hunting setup.
Pros and Cons of MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable: Perfect for run-and-gun hunting.
- Realistic photo print: Mimics a breeding hen, enticing toms.
- Easy to set up and take down: Saves valuable hunting time.
- Durable construction: Holds up well under field conditions.
- Affordable price: Provides good value for the money.
Cons
- Lacks the three-dimensionality of hard-bodied decoys.
- Requires careful positioning to maintain an upright posture.
Who Should Buy MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING?
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING is perfect for turkey hunters who prioritize portability and mobility. It’s an excellent choice for those who frequently hunt on foot or cover large areas of land. Beginners will also find it simple to use.
Hunters who demand the most realistic, three-dimensional decoy presentation should consider other options. This decoy is best suited for situations where portability outweighs absolute realism.
A comfortable hunting vest with plenty of pockets is a must-have accessory to keep the decoy readily accessible. Also, consider scent eliminating spray for your boots and clothing!
Conclusion on MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING
The MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING is a well-designed and effective tool for turkey hunters seeking a lightweight and portable decoy option. Its realistic photo print and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunting arsenal. The price of $26.49 is definitely justified by the value.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a highly portable decoy that doesn’t compromise on realism. It isn’t a magic bullet, but it’s a reliable and effective tool when used correctly.
If you’re tired of lugging heavy, bulky decoys into the woods, give the MONTANA DECOY TURKEY SPRING a try. You might just find that less is more when it comes to turkey hunting.