When it comes to bowhunting, success often depends on the ability to think outside the box, especially when hunting on public land. Iowa, known for its abundant whitetail population, offers some of the most challenging hunting conditions, with heavy pressure on its public lands. For veteran hunter Matt Richards, the key to success was an unconventional approach: using a decoy to bring in wary bucks from the timber.
The hunt took place in mid-November, just as the rut was peaking. During this time, bucks are highly territorial and driven by instinct to find mates, making them more likely to respond to a decoy. Matt had scouted this area thoroughly, noting the locations where bucks had been active and the dense timber where they sought cover. He decided to use a decoy to simulate a doe in estrus, hoping to entice any bucks in the area to come in for a closer look.
The idea of decoying bucks in thick timber wasn’t without risk. The dense cover made it difficult for bucks to spot a decoy from a distance, and they could easily slip by unnoticed. But Matt knew that the right setup could work wonders in such an environment. He chose a spot on a small ridge that overlooked a clearing, ensuring he could see any approaching deer without being detected. He placed his decoy about 20 yards in front of him, positioned at an angle that would allow him to make the shot if a buck approached.
As the sun began to rise, Matt’s heart raced with anticipation. The wind was perfect, and he was tucked in a stand with plenty of cover. Hours passed without a sign of deer, and Matt began to wonder if the plan would work. Just as he was starting to lose hope, movement in the timber caught his attention. A large buck stepped into view, drawn by the sight of the decoy. It was a buck Matt had been tracking for weeks, a heavy 8-pointer with an impressive rack.
The buck hesitated, cautious of the decoy, but curiosity won out. Slowly, it approached the decoy, presenting Matt with a perfect shot opportunity. With a steady hand, he drew his bow and released the arrow. The shot was true, and the buck dropped within seconds.
Matt’s success wasn’t just about the shot—it was about the strategy. Decoying bucks in the timber is a risky tactic, but when done right, it can be incredibly effective. By thinking outside the traditional hunting methods, Matt was able to turn a challenging public land hunt into a thrilling success. This hunt became a testament to the power of patience, strategy, and the confidence to try something new in the pursuit of big bucks.
