The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct Made a Bold First Impression
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct promises a blend of durability and realism, a critical combination for any waterfowler looking to improve their spread. Rig ‘Em Right has built a reputation for producing gear designed by waterfowlers for waterfowlers, and these decoys aim to continue that tradition. I was on the hunt for a durable black duck decoy set that could withstand the rigors of a long season in the often-harsh conditions of the Atlantic flyway.
For years, I’ve relied on a mixed spread, often finding black ducks responding well to a lifelike representation of their own kind. The challenge has always been finding decoys that can hold their paint and their form after being tossed in and out of layout boats, enduring icy conditions, and weathering the inevitable abuse that comes with the territory. I was hoping that the Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct would finally deliver on that promise.
My initial experience was unboxing the decoys on my workbench, and I immediately noted the texture of the EVA plastic. The decoys had a slight give, suggesting they would be less prone to cracking in freezing temperatures. The paint job was also surprisingly detailed, with subtle variations in color that mimicked the natural iridescence of a black duck’s plumage.
I considered other options like the Flambeau Storm Front2 Black Duck Decoys and the Avian-X Topflight Black Duck Duck Decoys. While those decoys offered appealing features, the Rig ‘Em Right decoys seemed to strike a better balance between durability and realism at this price point. My initial excitement stemmed from the feel of the EVA plastic and the promise of longevity – a key factor considering the investment involved in building a quality decoy spread.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct was on a frigid December morning in a brackish tidal marsh. I set the decoys out in a small spread, mixed with some mallards and wigeon, hoping to attract some late-season black ducks. The wind was whipping, and a light sleet was falling, creating challenging conditions for both me and the decoys.
The decoys handled the chop admirably, riding naturally in the water and maintaining their upright position even in the gusty winds. I appreciated that the decoys have that ideal width and balance, because it allowed my TX rigs to stay in place. Within an hour, a pair of black ducks locked onto the spread and committed without hesitation, providing a testament to the decoys’ lifelike appearance.
There were no immediate issues, although I did notice that the included keels seemed a bit shallow for truly rough water. They still did a good job, but I know if I am hunting the bays offshore, I may need more weight. It was a promising start, suggesting that these decoys could indeed improve my success in the field.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct has proven to be a reliable addition to my spread. The EVA plastic has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation despite repeated exposure to freezing temperatures and rough handling. The paint has also remained remarkably intact, with only minor scuffing in a few areas.
The decoys are easy to clean, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water to remove mud and debris. Compared to my older, hard-plastic decoys, the Rig ‘Em Right models have held their color and form far better, outperforming my expectations in terms of durability and longevity. They seem purpose built and ready to hunt every time I throw them.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct
Specifications
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance in the field. They are made of durable and flexible EVA plastic, known for its resistance to cracking and deformation. Each six-pack includes two upright drakes, two low head drakes, one upright hen, and one low head hen.
The decoys are designed with an ideal width and balance for use with TX rigs or Rig’Em Right Original anchors. This thoughtful design ensures that the decoys ride naturally in the water and remain upright even in windy conditions. The paint adhesion is excellent, contributing to the decoys’ overall durability and lifelike appearance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the decoys’ ability to attract birds and withstand the rigors of hunting. The EVA plastic ensures longevity, while the realistic paint job and varied postures enhance their appeal to wary waterfowl. The ideal width and balance makes rigging them easy and worry-free.
Performance & Functionality
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct performs its job admirably, effectively attracting black ducks and holding up well under challenging conditions. The realistic paint scheme and varied postures mimic the natural behavior of black ducks, increasing their effectiveness in drawing in birds.
The primary strength of these decoys is their durability. I also found the varied poses help add realism to a spread. The shallow keel could be improved for truly rough water situations, which I think is the only weakness of these decoys.
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a valuable addition to my waterfowling arsenal. I am looking to add another half-dozen to my spread this coming season.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct features a well-thought-out design and comfortable ergonomics. The EVA plastic gives the decoys a slightly softer feel compared to hard plastic models, making them easier to handle and less prone to damage. The weight is appropriate, making them easy to carry and deploy without sacrificing stability in the water.
There’s virtually no learning curve; they are ready to go right out of the box. They are designed to be tough and durable, which I appreciate.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct is designed to last. The durable EVA plastic and excellent paint adhesion ensure that these decoys can withstand years of use with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt. Minor paint touch-ups may be necessary over time, but the overall construction and materials minimize the need for extensive repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct does not come with any specific accessories beyond the decoys themselves. However, they are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rigging options, including TX rigs, Rig’Em Right Original anchors, and various types of decoy line.
The ability to customize the rigging allows hunters to tailor the decoys to their specific hunting conditions and preferences. The fact that they are purpose built with TX Rigs in mind makes it even easier to get them deployed.
Pros and Cons of Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct
Pros
- Durable EVA plastic construction ensures longevity, even in harsh conditions.
- Realistic paint scheme and varied postures effectively attract black ducks.
- Ideal width and balance make them easy to rig with TX rigs or Rig’Em Right Original anchors.
- Easy to clean and maintain, minimizing hassle in the field.
- They float naturally and are not easily tipped over.
Cons
- The included keels may be too shallow for extremely rough water conditions.
- The price point, while reasonable, may be a barrier for some budget-conscious hunters.
Who Should Buy Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct?
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct is perfect for avid waterfowlers who prioritize durability and realism in their decoy spread, especially those targeting black ducks. They are an excellent choice for hunters who frequent brackish marshes, tidal flats, and other environments where black ducks are commonly found.
Hunters who primarily hunt large, open water areas or who require decoys with extremely deep keels may want to consider other options. Also, hunters new to the sport might be overwhelmed by the price tag. A must-have accessory would be high quality TX rigs, I prefer to use Rig’Em Right products.
Conclusion on Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct
The Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct offers an excellent blend of durability, realism, and ease of use, making them a valuable addition to any waterfowler’s arsenal. The price is justified by the quality of the materials and construction, ensuring that these decoys will provide years of reliable service.
I would highly recommend the Rig ‘Em Right Mainline Series Black Duck Decoy 6/ct to any serious waterfowler looking to improve their success in the field. If you’re ready to add a touch of realism and durability to your spread, head to your local Rig ‘Em Right dealer and pick up a six-pack today. Your next hunt will thank you.