Decoying Essex Pigeons

Published on January 12, 2023
Duration: 35:47

This video details advanced wood pigeon decoying techniques in Essex, focusing on reconnaissance, hide construction, and strategic decoy placement. Expert Paul Payne emphasizes shooting ethics, advocating for clean kills within 50 yards and criticizing long-range 'ego shooting'. The content also covers specific shotgun and ammunition choices, including Hull Cartridge loads and Miroku shotguns, highlighting the importance of movement in decoys for attracting wary birds.

Quick Summary

For ethical pigeon decoying, shoot within 50 yards to ensure clean kills, avoiding 'ego shooting' at extreme ranges. Place decoys at the top of crop height for visibility, using a mix of static and mechanical types. Prioritize stillness in your hide over elaborate camouflage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Wood Pigeons
  2. 01:05Reconnaissance and Planning
  3. 02:26Ammunition and Shotguns
  4. 03:50Hide Construction
  5. 06:27Decoying Strategy
  6. 08:28Mechanical Decoys
  7. 15:23Shooting Ethics and Technique
  8. 21:22Safety and Partnership

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended shooting range for ethical pigeon decoying?

Expert Paul Payne advocates for shooting pigeons within a 50-yard range to ensure clean, ethical kills. He strongly advises against 'ego shooting' at extreme distances, emphasizing accuracy and responsible hunting practices.

How should pigeon decoys be positioned for maximum effectiveness?

Decoys should be placed at the top of the crop height so that incoming pigeons can easily spot them. A mix of static decoys and mechanical aids like flappers can enhance the pattern's appeal.

What are key elements of a successful pigeon hide setup?

A 360-degree hide in an open field should utilize light-colored netting to match the surroundings. Maintaining stillness is paramount; it's more effective than relying solely on camouflage.

Which shotgun and ammunition are recommended for pigeon shooting?

Paul Payne prefers the Miroku MK60 Grade 5 shotgun with fixed 3/4 chokes. He discusses Hull Cartridge Special Pigeon and Superfast Pigeon loads, noting their effectiveness for this type of hunting.

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