Choosing the Best Decoy Bags: A Practical Guide

Choosing the Best Decoy Bags

When it comes to waterfowl hunting, having the right decoy setup can make a significant difference in attracting ducks and geese. However, the gear you use to transport and store those decoys is just as important. A good decoy bag ensures that your decoys remain in excellent condition, are easy to carry, and are properly organized for when it’s time to set up your spread. With so many options on the market, choosing the best decoy bag for your needs can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the key features to consider when selecting the perfect decoy bag for your hunting adventures, including the benefits of using a blind bag.

Why Decoy Bags Are Essential

A decoy bag is essential for protecting your decoys, making them easier to carry, and keeping them organized during transportation. Investing in high quality bags is crucial as they offer the durability and protection needed for various hunting situations, ensuring your decoys are secure and well-maintained.

Some key reasons to invest in a good decoy bag include:

• Protection: Keeps decoys safe from damage during transport and storage, ensuring they remain in good condition for repeated use.

• Organization: Helps keep decoys organized, preventing them from tangling or getting scratched, and making setup easier and faster.

• Ease of Transport: Provides a convenient way to carry multiple decoys, especially when you’re walking long distances or traveling by boat.

Choosing the right decoy bag involves more than just finding one that fits your decoys. It requires considering durability, size, material, and extra features that will enhance your experience in the field.

Types of Decoy Bags

Decoy bags come in different shapes and sizes, designed for various types of decoys and hunting conditions. Understanding the types of bags available and their features will help you make an informed decision.

Mesh Decoy Bags

• Best for: Carrying lighter, smaller decoys or for hunters who need a bag that allows for quick draining of water.

• Advantages:

• Lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for storing wet decoys after use.

• Allows air to circulate and helps prevent mildew or mold buildup.

• Easy to carry, with shoulder straps or handles for comfort.

• Particularly suitable for transporting Texas rigged decoys, as they prevent tangles and facilitate quick access when setting out decoys in the water.

• Disadvantages:

• Mesh bags can be less durable over time, especially if exposed to rough terrain or heavy decoys.

• Limited protection from damage since they don’t offer much padding or support.

Heavy-Duty Decoy Bags

Best for: Hunters who need to carry a few dozen decoys or those who hunt in more rugged environments.

Advantages:

• Typically made from durable materials such as polyester or heavy-duty nylon, these bags are designed to withstand the wear and tear of the outdoors.

• Provides extra protection for decoys, keeping them safe from damage during transport.

• Often come with multiple compartments, allowing for better organization of decoys by size or species.

Disadvantages:

• Heavier and bulkier than mesh bags, which may make them less comfortable for long hikes or treks.

Waterproof Decoy Bags

• Best for: Hunters who frequently hunt in wet conditions or need extra protection from water.

• Advantages:

  • Made from waterproof materials such as PVC or coated nylon, these bags keep decoys dry and prevent water from seeping in.

  • Ideal for hunters who store their decoys outside or in areas where rain or snow is a concern.

  • Protects both decoys and other gear from getting wet and damaged.

• Disadvantages:

  • Can be less breathable than mesh bags, which might lead to moisture buildup inside the bag if decoys are wet when placed inside.

Backpack-Style Decoy Bags

• Best for: Hunters who prefer a hands-free option or need to carry decoys for long distances.

• Advantages:

  • Designed like a backpack, with shoulder straps and sometimes waist belts for better weight distribution and comfort.

  • Ideal for carrying decoys over long distances, such as when walking into a hunting area from a vehicle or boat.

  • Offers good organization, with many having internal pockets or straps to keep decoys from shifting around.

• Disadvantages:

  • May not be as durable as heavy-duty bags if overloaded.

  • Can be more expensive due to the additional comfort features.

Slotted Decoy Bags

Slotted decoy bags are a fantastic option for hunters who need to carry multiple decoys while ensuring they remain in pristine condition. These bags feature individual slots or compartments for each decoy, preventing them from knocking against each other and getting damaged. This design not only protects your decoys but also makes it easier to organize and access them quickly when setting up your spread. Slotted decoy bags are particularly useful for hunters who carry a large number of decoys, as they provide a structured and efficient way to transport them.

Silhouette Decoy Bags

For hunters who use silhouette decoys, silhouette decoy bags are an essential piece of gear. These bags are specifically designed to accommodate the flat, rectangular shape of silhouette decoys, often featuring individual slots or compartments to keep each decoy secure. This design ensures that your silhouette decoys remain organized and protected from damage during transport. Silhouette decoy bags are a convenient and practical solution for hunters who rely on this type of decoy, making it easy to carry and store them efficiently.

Key Features to Look for in a Decoy Bag

When selecting a decoy bag, consider the following features to ensure you’re choosing the best option for your needs:

Durability and Material

The material of your decoy bag determines its overall durability and ability to withstand the elements. Look for bags made from high-denier nylon or PVC-coated fabrics, which are known for their strength and resistance to abrasions, tears, and water.

• Nylon: Lightweight and durable, nylon is a popular choice for both mesh and heavy-duty decoy bags.

• PVC: Often used for waterproof bags, PVC is durable and provides excellent protection from water.

For example, the Dive Bomb Industries 12 Slot Duck Floater Bag is a high-quality, durable option that features a unique 3×4 configuration, enhancing loading convenience and providing reliable protection for your decoys.

Size and Capacity

The size of your decoy bag will depend on the number and size of decoys you plan to carry. Some bags are designed to hold only a few decoys, while others are large enough to carry a full spread. Consider how many decoys you’ll typically carry and choose a bag with enough room to accommodate them comfortably. 

• Standard Size: Suitable for 6-12 decoys, depending on size.

• Large Size: Can carry 12-18 decoys or more, ideal for hunters who use a larger spread.

Comfort and Carrying Options

If you’re trekking long distances to your hunting spot, comfort is key when transporting decoys. Look for bags that offer carrying options suited to your needs. Shoulder straps, padded handles, and waist belts can make carrying decoys more comfortable and help distribute weight evenly.

• Shoulder Straps: Look for padded shoulder straps for comfort, especially when carrying heavy loads.

• Handles: Some bags come with reinforced handles for easy lifting and carrying by hand.

• Waist Belts: Waist belts can provide additional support and distribute weight, reducing strain on your back.

Organization Features

Some decoy bags come with internal pockets, dividers, or compression straps that help keep your decoys organized and prevent them from shifting around during transport. This is especially important if you have a mix of different decoy types, such as mallards and geese, or if you want to keep decoys from getting damaged.

• Separate Compartments: Keeps decoys organized by species or size.

• Compression Straps: Helps reduce the bulk of the bag, making it easier to carry.

Ease of Use and Accessibility

A decoy bag should make it easy to load and unload your decoys quickly. Look for bags with wide openings, zipper closures, or drawstring closures that allow easy access to your decoys when you’re ready to set up your spread.

• Wide Openings: Allows for easy packing and unpacking of decoys.

• Zippers vs. Drawstrings: Zippers provide a more secure closure, while drawstrings may offer quicker access.

Protection Features

When it comes to choosing a decoy bag, protection features are crucial. Look for bags made from durable materials like nylon or polyester, which can withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Reinforced stitching adds to the bag’s durability, ensuring it can handle the weight and movement of multiple decoys. Additionally, consider bags with padding or cushioning to provide extra protection for your decoys, preventing them from getting scratched or damaged during transport.

Versatility

A versatile decoy bag can make a significant difference in your hunting experience. Look for bags with adjustable compartments or slots that can accommodate various types and sizes of decoys. This flexibility allows you to use the same bag for different hunting scenarios. Additionally, bags with multiple pockets or pouches are beneficial for storing additional gear such as calls, shells, or other hunting accessories, making your setup more efficient and organized.

Conclusion

Choosing the best decoy bag for your needs depends on several factors, including how many decoys you need to carry, the environment you hunt in, and the type of packing and transport features that will make your hunts more efficient. Whether you opt for a lightweight mesh bag for easy drainage, a heavy-duty waterproof bag for wet conditions, or a backpack-style bag for hands-free convenience, ensuring your decoys are well-protected and organized will ultimately enhance your hunting experience. By considering durability, size, comfort, and functionality, you can select a decoy bag that will serve you well in the field for years to come.

FAQs

What size decoy bag do I need?

The size of your decoy bag depends on the number and size of decoys you typically carry. A standard bag holds around 6-12 decoys, while larger bags can accommodate 12-18 or more decoys.

Can I use a mesh bag for carrying wet decoys?

Yes, mesh bags are designed to allow water to drain away, making them ideal for carrying wet decoys. However, they may not provide as much protection from damage as other types of decoy bags.

Are waterproof decoy bags worth the investment?

Waterproof decoy bags are particularly beneficial for hunters who frequently deal with wet conditions or store their decoys outside. They provide extra protection from water and help keep your decoys dry.

How can I prevent my decoys from getting damaged during transport?

Look for decoy bags made from durable materials such as high-denier nylon or PVC, which offer better protection from abrasions and impacts. Also, choose bags with organizational features to keep your decoys secure and prevent them from shifting.

What is the best way to organize my decoys in a bag?

Using bags with internal dividers or separate compartments is the best way to keep your decoys organized. You can also use dry bags or smaller pouches to store smaller decoys or accessories.