Deer hunting requires a great deal of effort, patience, and the right equipment to turn a challenging hunt into a successful one. Quality deer decoys, deer calls, attractants, and tree stands are essential tools that transform a dull hunting atmosphere into a professional and efficient setup for hunters.

In the United States, deer hunting is a popular activity with over 10 million hunters and an estimated 30 million deer. Experienced hunters optimize their chances of success by strategically planning and using realistic deer decoys to lure in their targets. Each of the deer decoys listed in this article has been field-tested, ensuring you can maximize your hunting efforts with proven results.

With the latest updates in product reviews and hunting gear, we’ve curated a list of the top 8 deer decoys to help you improve your hunting game. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, these decoys are designed to enhance your hunting experience and increase your chances of a successful harvest. Read on to discover the best deer decoys available and make the most out of your next hunting trip.

8 Must-Have Deer Decoys for Your Hunting

1. Flambeau’s Boss Babe Decoy

2. Flambeau Boss Buck Deer Decoy

3. MONTANA Whitetail Deer Decoy

4. Primos Scarface Deer Decoy

5. MONTANA Deer Decoy

6. Freshman Buck Decoy

7. TCDesigner Deer Decoy

8. Montana’s Estrus Deer Decoy

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1. Flambeau’s Boss Babe Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Position:- This comes with two sets of ears that feature an alert and submissive position. The upward ears describe an alert poster, which is very common when a deer hears any sound. In comparison, the submissive one is great for attracting a young buck.
• Movement:- It is steady and does not make any movement in the air. However, you can create that motion by adding a tailor cutting a plastic bag and attaching it over the tail area it does work.
• Durability:- Made with good quality plastic, this deer decoy is sturdy, durable, and works in opposite weather conditions. You can quickly assemble, disassemble, and put all the parts inside the belly. However, while carrying it makes much noise, which is quite inconvenient.

✔ Pros

• 3-D blow-molded HDPE plastic deer decoy
• Ultra-realistic posture and true-to-life size
• Easy to carry and easy to assemble
• Secure plug provided for the head

❌ Cons

• Expensive one

The Boss Babe deer decoy is carved considering winning sculptor Chris Schiller. The ultra-realistic and anatomically correct posture makes it the deer magnet to help you succeed on deer hunting fields. To provide more stability, each leg has a lug to which you can attach a stake. The limb breaks down the legs quickly and easily using a single hand.

Its size from nose to tail is 41″ and 32″ from shoulder to ground, which is large enough to draw a deer’s attention. Overall, this is very easy to take in and take out of the wood, however, there is no carry bag or stake included. Also, It’s better to use relaxed submissive ears, as the alert ear may scare off many deer and avoid coming closer.

2. Flambeau Boss Buck Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Durable Construction: Made from 3-D blow-molded HDPE plastic, this deer decoy is built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, ensuring long-lasting use.
• Ultra-Realistic Design: The Boss Buck decoy features exceptional detail, including anatomically correct posture and true-to-life size of a large, mature buck, making it highly effective in luring whitetail bucks, from young ones to impressive Booners, especially during the rut.
• Collapsible & Portable: Its removable leg design allows for convenient transport and storage. The heavy-duty threaded leg posts and locking lugs ensure stability when set up for use.
• Antler Set Included: Comes with an 8-point set of plastic antlers that add to the decoy’s authenticity and appeal to approaching deer.
• Carry Sling: Includes a blaze orange carry sling for easy and comfortable transportation to and from your hunting location.
• Decoy Dimensions: Nose to tail: 60 inches, Antler tip to the ground: 58 inches, Body width at the widest point: 13 inches, Shoulder to the ground: 41 inches

✔ Pros

• Lifelike and well-made, suitable for deer hunting
• Assembled parts in good condition despite being used
• Sturdy and easy to assemble, contributing to its durability

❌ Cons

• Missing strap for carrying; manufacturer’s customer service response lacking
• Requires staking down each foot in the field instead of a ground rod
• Mixed results with deer attraction, potentially scaring them away
• Somewhat bulky, which may pose challenges for some users

The FIELD-PROVEN Boss Buck Deer Decoy is a well-made and lifelike product, but its effectiveness in attracting deer may vary. The reviewer had a mixed experience with the decoy, initially experiencing the opposite effect of what was intended, as the deer seemed to be scared away rather than attracted.

However, the reviewer noted that the product itself is of good quality and relatively easy to assemble. Additionally, the reviewer was disappointed with the lack of customer service from the manufacturer, as they received the product in “used/like new” condition with a missing strap and received no response when contacting the manufacturer for assistance.

Despite the initial setbacks, the reviewer plans to give the decoy another shot in the upcoming year. Overall, the FIELD-PROVEN Boss Buck Deer Decoy is a mixed bag, with potential drawbacks in terms of its effectiveness and customer service.

3. MONTANA Whitetail Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Position:- The semi-alert position is perfect for attracting rutting bucks and creating a distraction in food sources. An attentive ear forward means listening intently and facing the upcoming threat. It helps bring deer a bit closer or make them pause for a moment for a shot.
• Movement:- The head moves side-by-side with the little breeze and appears realistic to deer around the area. To add more realism, you can attach a life-like tail as it will keep in motion even in low wind conditions and draw the attention of passing bucks and does.
• Durability:- The manufacturing is a nylon material that is great to stand in rainy and humid climates. It comes with easy-to-fold stakes that are easy to set up and carry. However, it is not made to absorb gunshots, so don’t shoot pallets for more extended usage.

✔ Pros

• Patented construction
• Easy folding and lightweight
• Ultimate in realism and fast to set up
• Perfect for luring a buck
• 90 to 95 % success rate of seeing deer

❌ Cons

• Ground steak quality is low 

It is an easy-to-set-up 2D broadside whitetail doe, a perfect combination to use with Playmate feeding doe or even solely. The print and rich color texture make it look original from close as well as far distances. It has dimensions of 37 “x40” unfolded and 13 “x16” while you fold it up. The size will bring a buck near your spot from more than 200 yards.

The best part, you can use it multiple times and leave it on the field without being worried about tears or rips. However, you may face challenges to fold this decoy, you have to repeat the process multiple times to get comfortable. Overall, impressively great for hunting and trapping a buck or deer. To have great success, put it out at the right time when you are targeting bucks.

4. Primos Scarface Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Position:- The outward ear is the lowest form of threat between mature and young bucks. A scar on the face makes the situation more real. The stern look and ear position convey a sense of danger and make the buck come to inspect. A buck uses this posture continuously in all deer seasons.

• Lifelike Tail:- The head and tail naturally move with the slightest breeze that attracts the buck’s attention. However, the tail is a little heavy to move in the wind, but it looks life-like and comes in motion in the right wind conditions.

• Durability:- The material is undisclosed but feels like polymer, durable, and perfect to work in the most challenging situations. It has a soft body cavity that easily fits with removable legs, heads, and antlers. A substantial stake with three points sharp ends the ground effortlessly and keeps it standing in heavy wind. 

✔ Pros

• Quality material
• Attracted antlers
• A lifelike tail that attracts the buck’s attention
• The scar on the face makes the situation more real
• Tested for the toughest situations & environments

❌ Cons

• This product contains chemicals 
• The steel anchoring system is not good

Launched in 2009, the Primos Scarface Decoy is first on the list, because it is field-tested and molded for all category hunters. It can attract the deer’s attention from 200 yards away and compel him to come into your shooting range. The body and rack size are not big enough to intimidate a mature buck, but the size is optimum to get the right kind of attention. You can also attach Primos Waggin’ whitetail, which is a remote control and adds realism.

However, the assembling takes time until you repeat it several times and get comfortable. It is recommended not to leave any scant on your decoy, you can use rubber gloves or a good quality scant-eliminating spray to help you get some extra kills. Overall, it is a quality deer decoy and costs you around $200, which I think is worth paying for your game.

5. MONTANA Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Professional Hunter-Created and Tested: Designed and tested by professional hunters in real field conditions to ensure effectiveness.
• New and Improved for 2023: Features the latest enhancements for even better performance in the field.
• Figure-8 Folding Design: Both the Dreamy Doe and Whitetail Buck decoys fold down in a figure-8 fashion, allowing for easy movement and portability in the field.
• Compatibility with Quickstand: Both deer decoys in this set are compatible with the Quickstand (*sold separately), enhancing stability and realism.
• Teaser Tail Compatibility: The Dreamy Doe and Whitetail Buck decoys are compatible with a Teaser Tail (*sold separately) for added motion and realism, making them even more enticing to deer.
• Easy Folding Instructions: The folding process for these 2-D decoys is straightforward, and they can be easily secured for transport with the provided strap or harness.
• Versatile Use Throughout the Season: Suitable for use in feeding situations and during all rut phases, making them versatile tools for hunting from early to late season.
• Enhance Safety and Appeal: The decoys help create a safer and more appealing environment for late-season food sources, increasing their effectiveness.
• Must-Have for Decoy Enthusiasts: A necessity for whitetail hunters, particularly those interested in decoy tactics to improve their archery and rifle setups.

✔ Pros

• Successfully lured an 8-point buck from a long distance during the rut
• Easy to set up in various positions, durable in windy conditions
• Offers better concealment with its larger size, cost-effective

❌ Cons

• Tail fan tips may not match the description image
• Folds back into a small circle is challenging for some users
• The attachment system is less secure, causing potential rotation
• Wind sensitivity makes it unstable in windy conditions

I invested in this product with a clear goal in mind: to lure a buck from a neighboring property that had eluded me for some time. My second encounter with this decoy during the rut exceeded my expectations. I managed to entice an impressive 8-point buck from a staggering 250 yards away to within a mere 5 yards.

The lifelike decoys piqued his interest, and a simple snort wheeze had him trotting eagerly to the base of my tree. The product’s easy field access, quick setup for both standing and bedded positions and resilience in 20 mph winds were truly commendable. It served its purpose exceptionally well, and I look forward to many more successful years with it.

6. Freshman Buck Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Position:- The back ear position challenges the big buck and constrains him to take the challenge. This is designed considering a two-year-old buck with a smaller frame and no hump on the back, making it life-like.
• Movement:- This is lightweight, so it’s natural to come in motion with even a small gust of wind. However, the motion takes place side by side, making it a 2D deer decoy real from a specific direction.

• Durability:- The decoy is made with double-layered thicker fabric, easy to wash, air dry, and store anywhere. It is durable, compact while folded, and works well in any climate. This comes with a pair of stakes that is sharpened enough to ground.

✔ Pros

• Easy to fold and carry
• Real buck for ultimate realism
• Deer printed on both sides
• Built with double-layered and thicker fabric
• Posture sends a challenge without intimidating bucks

❌ Cons

• This product contains chemicals
• It works, but you have to understand how to use it 

This freshman Deer decoy is field-proven and printed with the help of HD photography to provide ultra-realism. If there are any mature bucks around, it keeps him engaged with a challenging posture. It can effortlessly draw the attention of any buck in 120 to 150 yards.

Also, it costs you around $80, which is comparatively cheaper and better for cardboard deer decoys. It weighs merely around 35 ounces with leg poles. It is better than other bulky and heavy decoys that take much effort to carry on the field—highly recommended if you hunt alone. Just keep it scent-free before setting it up on the ground to defeat the buck’s sense of smell.

7. TCDesigner Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Complete Assembly Kit: This decoy comes with (2) 45″ wires and (2) pushnut bolt retainers, ensuring quick and easy assembly. Instructions are included for added convenience.
• Impressive Size: The two-dimensional Deer Silhouette decoy measures 40″ high x 46″ wide, making it highly visible and realistic.
• Durable Construction: Made of tough and lightweight corrugated plastic material, this deer decoy is built to withstand various weather conditions. It’s designed for long-lasting use in the outdoors and printed on BOTH sides.
• Realistic Motion: The stake design allows for decoy motion on windy days, creating a more lifelike appearance to attract deer.
• Space-Saving Design: These printed Whitetail Buck Decoys offer significant space savings compared to traditional 3D shell or full-body decoys. You won’t need an entire trailer to transport your hunting gear.

✔ Pros

• Durable, weather-resistant construction ensures long-lasting use
• Realistic motion with stake design and proven effectiveness
• Space-saving and versatile for a variety of hunting scenarios
• Double-sided printing with a UV coating reduces glare for enhanced realism
• American-made for quality assurance.

❌ Cons

• Assembly is required, which may be a minor inconvenience for some users
• Potential folding challenges for storage or transportation

It is a popular choice for hunters looking for a durable and effective way to attract prey. The decoys are made from a tough and lightweight corrugated plastic material that is designed to withstand all types of weather conditions. They are also printed on both sides with a UV coating to reduce glare.

One of the things that hunters appreciate most about this is their effectiveness. The decoys are designed to look like real animals, and they are often mistaken for the real thing by prey. This can be a huge advantage for hunters, as it can allow them to get a closer shot.

The decoys are made from a tough and lightweight material that can withstand all types of weather conditions. This means that hunters can use them season after season without having to worry about them breaking down.

Overall, TCDesignerProducts, Silhouette Decoys, and Hunting Decoys are a great choice for hunters looking for a durable and effective way to attract prey. The decoys are well-made, effective, and durable.

8. Montana’s Estrus Deer Decoy

★Why You Choose This Deer Decoy

• Position:- This is a peeing decoy that works to attract deer long after the rut has passed. The squatting pose compels those bucks cruising the woods seeking a doe for the meeting. The Legs placement seems the decoy is in place for easy movement in the field.
• Movement:- The peeing position doesn’t require much movement however, the tail and ears make enough motion to captivate a young buck and inspect closely.
• Durability:- Estrus Betty is made with a high-quality fabric that is washable and air dry. Also, good print quality doesn’t fade for a longer period. It easily folds up and fits in your backpack. The stakes are substantial, the ground quick, and fold up nicely- only one piece of advice is to not shoot for longer use. 

✔ Pros

• Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
• Fantastic customer care support
• Increases the effectiveness of calls and scents
• Peeing doe attracts bucks during all phase
• Pairs great with our other deer decoys

❌ Cons

• An issue with leg spikes
• The decoy should only be used for the full rut

This decoy is manufactured considering the real-life photos and body postures of a doe in estrus. Extremely lightweight and easy to set up, the deer decoy creates a sense of jealous rage among a pair of bucks. Thus, they compete and come closer to the purpose of the meeting and inspecting the scent.

To add more realism, use a clothespin and add a strip of white cloth to a deer decoy’s tail while setting up. This costs you $130, which is pocket-friendly and worth paying. Overall, this is the best folding deer decoy to attract bucks, but it can freak out the doe and won’t grab the same reaction as the bucks.

How to Know Where to Place Your Deer Decoys?

Effective deer decoy placement can significantly improve your chances of a successful hunt. Here’s a detailed guide on how to position your deer decoys for the best results:

1. Understand Deer Behavior

• Seasonal Changes: During the rut, bucks are more aggressive and respond well to decoys, especially doe decoys. Outside of the rut, deer may be more cautious, so using a decoy sparingly and in the right setting is essential.
• Feeding Patterns: Place decoys near feeding areas, such as crop fields or food plots, to catch deer as they follow their natural patterns.

2. Location of Decoy Placement

• Near Travel Corridors: Deer use well-worn trails between feeding, bedding, and water sources. Place decoys along these travel routes where deer are naturally funneled through. Look for signs like tracks, rubs, and droppings.
• Bedding Areas: Position decoys near the edge of bedding areas where deer are likely to approach. Bucks may respond to decoys near their bedding zone, especially during the rut.
• Open Fields or Clearings: In wide-open areas, deer decoys are more visible and are likely to attract deer from a distance. However, ensure the decoy isn’t in too exposed of an area, as deer might become suspicious if the decoy doesn’t move.

3. Decoy Type and Setup

• Doe Decoy: A doe decoy is generally effective throughout the hunting season. During the rut, place the decoy in a feeding position to attract bucks looking for receptive does.
• Buck Decoy: Use buck decoys during the rut when dominant bucks are more territorial. Place the buck decoy facing or slightly angled toward your stand or blind, as bucks are more likely to approach from the front or side to size up their competition.
• Combination Setup: A buck-and-doe combo can work well during the peak rut. Position the doe in a feeding position with the buck standing behind her, as this mimics a natural mating scene that can trigger a response from other bucks.

4. Decoy Placement in Relation to Your Stand or Blind

• Upwind of Your Location: Always place decoys upwind, as deer approach from downwind to catch the scent of the decoy. This positioning ensures the deer walk in front of your stand, giving you a clear shot.
• 30-40 Yards from Stand: Place the decoy 30 to 40 yards from your stand or blind. This allows enough space for the deer to approach the decoy while still keeping them within range for an ethical shot.

5. Facing and Body Positioning of Decoys

• Doe Decoy Facing Away: For a doe decoy, position it facing away from your stand. Bucks tend to approach from behind to check if the doe is receptive, bringing them into your shooting lane.
• Buck Decoy Facing Toward: Bucks are likely to challenge another buck head-on, so position your buck decoy facing your location. This forces the approaching buck to circle around and present a broadside shot.
• Movement: Adding movement to your decoy, like a slight tail or ear twitch, makes it more realistic. Motion decoys or those with movable parts increase the chances of drawing in a curious deer.

6. Timing and Weather Considerations

• Morning and Evening: Deer are more active during these times, so placing decoys early in the morning or late afternoon near feeding areas or trails can be particularly effective.
• Wind Direction: Always be mindful of the wind direction when placing decoys. Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell, and improper wind management can lead to a failed setup. Ensure the wind is blowing from the decoy to you, not toward the deer.
• Weather Conditions: On windy days, decoys might sway or appear unnatural. Conversely, on calm days, a motionless decoy may seem out of place. Adjust your decoy strategy based on the weather to ensure it looks realistic.

7. Reading Deer Response

• Gauge Reactions: If you notice deer avoiding or acting wary around your decoy, consider repositioning or changing the type of decoy. Adjust based on the deer’s behavior to improve success.

Frequently Ask Questions

1. What are the key factors to consider when choosing the best deer decoys for hunting?

The key factors to consider when choosing the best deer decoys for hunting are the type of decoy, the realism of the decoy, the materials it’s made from, the size and design, and whether it allows for realistic motion.

2. Why is realism important in deer decoys, and how can it be achieved?

Realism is important in deer decoys because it convinces live deer that the decoy is an actual member of their herd or a potential mate. It can be achieved using high-quality molds and designs that accurately replicate the appearance, size, and posture of real deer. Decoys should feature natural coloring, lifelike eyes, and details such as veins and hair texture. Additionally, some decoys offer motion features to mimic the movement of live deer, further enhancing their authenticity.

3. What are the advantages of using deer decoys in hunting?

The advantages of using deer decoys in hunting include attracting deer closer to your location, diverting their attention away from the hunter, and being effective during the rut.

4. What are some common types of deer decoys, and when are they most effective?

Common types of deer decoys include buck, doe, and fawn decoys. Buck decoys are typically used during the rut to attract other bucks looking for a potential rival. Doe decoys can be used to mimic a feeding or resting doe, attracting both bucks and do. Fawn decoys are effective during early-season hunts when deer are caring for their young.

5. How can hunters maximize the effectiveness of their deer decoys?

Hunters can maximize the effectiveness of their deer decoys by strategically placing them downwind from their hunting position, ensuring that approaching deer can see the decoy. It’s crucial to match the decoy’s posture and movement to the specific hunting scenario. Using scent attractants or calls in conjunction with the decoy can also increase its allure. Regularly changing the decoy’s location or angle can prevent deer from becoming wary of its presence.