Imagine this: you’re deep in the elk woods, the crisp autumn air fills your lungs, and you hear that magnificent bugle in the distance. But when you finally spot the bull, he’s wary, and your hunt stalls. This is where the magic of elk decoys comes in, but choosing the *right* one can feel like navigating a maze.
For many hunters, the biggest struggle with elk decoys is knowing which one will actually fool a mature bull. You’ve invested time, money, and effort into your hunt, and the last thing you want is a decoy that looks more like a plastic lawn ornament than a living, breathing elk. The confusion over materials, portability, and realism can be overwhelming, leaving you second-guessing your choices.
But what if you could cut through that confusion and confidently pick a decoy that brings elk closer? In this guide, we’ll explore the best elk decoys for 2021, helping you understand what makes them effective. You’ll learn what features to look for, how to set them up for maximum impact, and ultimately, how to increase your chances of a successful elk hunt this season. Get ready to turn those distant bugles into up-close encounters.
Our Top 5 Elk Decoys 2021 Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 | RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
 | Montana Decoy Eichler Elk | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
 | Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Elk Decoys 2021 Detailed Reviews
1. RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy
Rating: 8.8/10
The RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy is a must-have for any serious elk hunter. This decoy is designed to help you get closer to those wary bulls. Its realistic look and size fool even the most experienced elk. Plus, a portion of every sale goes to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, so you can feel good about your purchase.
What We Like:
- It folds up easily. It is also light enough to carry on every hunt.
- Its size is just right. It gives you better visibility in the field.
- It helps you stalk better. This means you have increased stalking advantages.
- It works well all season long. It is effective throughout all phases of the season.
- Buying this decoy helps the RMEF. A portion of proceeds from the sale of each RMEF Edition Cow Elk Decoy goes to them.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s easy to carry, a built-in carrying strap would be a nice addition.
- More color options could cater to different terrain and lighting conditions.
The RMEF Cow Elk by Montana Decoy offers a fantastic combination of portability and effectiveness. It’s a smart investment for any hunter looking to improve their success rates while supporting a great cause.
2. Montana Decoy Eichler Elk
Rating: 9.1/10
The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is a game-changer for any elk hunter. This isn’t just any fake elk; it looks incredibly real. It’s built using a picture of a real elk, so it fools even the smartest animals. Setting it up is easy, and it folds down small enough to carry anywhere. Plus, it comes with a DVD to help you learn how to use it best.
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What We Like:
- The realistic appearance is a huge advantage. It really looks like a live elk.
- You get a DVD with helpful tips and hunting videos. This makes learning to use it simple.
- It offers two easy ways to set it up: using leg poles or Eichler’s special string system.
- It folds down to a compact size, making it easy to pack and carry.
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What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the material might show wear and tear after many uses in rough conditions.
- The DVD content, while helpful, could be expanded with more advanced decoy strategies.
The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk provides a fantastic way to improve your hunting success. Its lifelike design and user-friendly features make it a top choice for serious hunters.
3. Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk
Rating: 8.9/10
The Montana Decoy Miss September Feeding Elk is a game-changer for hunters. This decoy looks incredibly real. It helps you get closer to elk. Its feeding pose is very natural. This makes elk feel safe and curious.
What We Like:
- It’s very versatile for different hunting situations.
- The feeding pose builds confidence in elk.
- It has a photo-realistic quality for a 3D look.
- It fools even elk that are shy of calls.
- Setup and takedown are quick and easy.
- It collapses for simple transport.
- The durable polyester fabric handles all weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- The realism might be slightly less convincing in very close observation.
- While durable, extreme conditions might still test its longevity over many years.
This decoy offers a realistic and effective way to attract elk. It’s a smart investment for serious hunters.
4. Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy
Rating: 9.4/10
The Montana Decoy 0078: Back Country Elk Decoy is a game-changer for serious elk hunters. It’s built to help you get closer to elk without being seen. This decoy looks just like a real elk because it’s made from a picture of one. It’s perfect for bowhunters who want to go deep into the backcountry, away from roads and other hunters. You can set it up in many different ways, making it super useful.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to set up and use in different spots.
- You can use it with your trekking pole, its own leg pole, a tree top, or even pin it to a tree.
- It folds up really small, so it’s easy to carry wherever you go.
- It looks like a real elk, which will fool even smart elk.
- It’s designed specifically for bowhunters who want to hunt in quiet, remote areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- It would be helpful if it came with clearer instructions for all the different setup options.
- A small carrying bag could make it even easier to pack and protect when folded.
This decoy gives you a real advantage in the elk woods. It’s a smart choice for hunters who value stealth and success.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Elk Decoy Advantage
Are you looking to boost your chances of success during elk season? An elk decoy can be a game-changer. It tricks real elk into thinking another elk is nearby. This can draw them closer, giving you a better shot. This guide will help you choose the best elk decoy for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When picking an elk decoy, several features make a big difference.
Realistic Appearance
- Shape and Size: The decoy should look like a real elk. A cow elk decoy is common. A bull elk decoy can also be effective. It should be about the size of a real elk.
- Color and Texture: The colors should match a real elk’s fur. The texture should not be too shiny. Shiny surfaces can scare elk away.
- Head and Antlers: If you choose a bull decoy, the antlers should look natural. The head position matters too. A cow decoy might have its head down, feeding.
Portability and Setup
- Weight: You’ll carry this decoy into the field. A lighter decoy is easier to pack.
- Ease of Setup: You want to set it up quickly. Some decoys inflate. Others fold. Look for simple instructions.
- Packability: When not in use, it needs to fit in your pack. Compact decoys are best.
Durability
- Weather Resistance: The decoy will face wind, rain, and sun. It needs to be tough.
- Stitching and Seams: Strong stitching prevents tears. Check for reinforced seams.
2. Important Materials
The materials used to make an elk decoy affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Fabric: Many decoys use tough fabrics like nylon or polyester. These materials resist tears. They also dry quickly.
- Inflation Systems: For inflatable decoys, the material needs to be strong and airtight. Look for durable PVC or similar plastics.
- Support Poles: Some decoys have internal poles for shape. These are often made of fiberglass or aluminum. They should be strong but light.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make an elk decoy better, while others make it worse.
Quality Boosters
- Realistic Paint Jobs: Detailed painting makes the decoy look real.
- Natural Posing: A decoy that looks like it’s naturally standing or feeding is more convincing.
- Quiet Materials: Noisy materials can alert elk. Silent fabrics are a plus.
Quality Reducers
- Cheap Plastic: Flimsy plastic can crack or tear easily.
- Poor Stitching: Loose or weak stitching can lead to the decoy falling apart.
- Unnatural Shine: A glossy finish scares animals.
- Difficult Setup: Complicated assembly wastes valuable hunting time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the decoy and your experience with it are very important.
Hunting Scenarios
- Drawing Bulls: A realistic cow decoy can call in curious bulls.
- Calming Herds: Multiple decoys can make a herd feel more at ease. This can help you get closer.
- Ambush Hunting: Place decoys where elk are likely to travel. Then, hide and wait.
Ease of Use
A good decoy is easy to carry and set up in minutes. You don’t want to struggle when every second counts. Experienced hunters often find that good decoys become second nature to use. Beginners might need a few practice runs at home.
Remember to practice with your decoy. Know how to set it up quickly. Learn where to place it for the best results. A well-chosen and well-used elk decoy can greatly improve your hunting success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of an elk decoy?
A: The main purpose is to trick real elk into thinking another elk is nearby. This can attract them closer to you.
Q: Should I get a cow or a bull elk decoy?
A: A cow decoy is often used to attract bulls. A bull decoy can also work, especially during the rut.
Q: How important is the realism of an elk decoy?
A: Realism is very important. The more realistic it looks, the more likely it is to fool real elk.
Q: What are the best materials for an elk decoy?
A: Tough fabrics like nylon or polyester are good. For inflatable decoys, strong, airtight plastics are best.
Q: How do I set up an elk decoy quickly?
A: Practice setting it up at home. Choose a decoy that is known for easy setup.
Q: Can I use an elk decoy in windy conditions?
A: Yes, but you need to make sure it is secured properly. Some decoys are more stable than others.
Q: How do I store my elk decoy?
A: Store it clean and dry in a cool place. This helps it last longer.
Q: Will a shiny decoy scare elk?
A: Yes, a shiny surface can look unnatural and scare elk away. Look for matte finishes.
Q: How much do elk decoys usually cost?
A: Prices vary, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 or more depending on the quality and features.
Q: Where is the best place to set up an elk decoy?
A: Place it in areas where elk feed, travel, or rest. Consider the wind direction.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.