Duck decoys are an important part of the game. They provide comfort to ducks in the illusion that other ducks are already in the target area. So, no matter how convincingly the decoy was crafted, if it becomes worn or develops leaks, birds will know that it is not real. Duck decoy maintenance and repair is essential for a fruitful hunt, as pointed in detail by this Ducks.org article.
Always begin repair with leaks. The best way to locate a leak in a decoy is to press down on the back and rotate the duck side-to-side. The water will filter out of any problem areas. After you’ve found the leaks and cracks, use a ⅛ drill bit and a power drill to enlarge the holes. Drain the duck after enlarging the holes by hanging the decoy upside down. Then fill in the gaps with epoxy sealant or shoe goo.
To clean dusty or dirty decoys, use warm water, but no soap. Soap often has additives that will make your decoy shiny and will tip off waterfowl to its artificiality. For colorful areas of decoys, like a Mallard Drake’s head, use Armor All after cleaning.
If the decoy still looks worn after washing, you may want to purchase a paint repair kit from Cabela’s or Mack’s Prairie Wings. Buying a kit from one of these two outlets will assure that you choose matching colors. You’ll also need a 1-inch wide paintbrush to fill in large areas and a tapered artist’s brush for detailing.
Replacing rigging cords and weights is much easier than it looks. Simply use lead weights and tarred nylon decoy line to set up shallow-water and deep-water rigs. Deep-water rigs require several feet of line and 12-ounce neck ring weights. Shallow-water rigs require shorter cords and 5-ounce strap weights.
After you’ve fixed up your decoys, call Pluck-a-Duck to set up your next waterfowl hunt.