Decoy spread size in the later part of season: UPDATED WITH PICS!!!!

[stickbuck]

So as we approach the last quarter of the season I begin to question the size of my spread. I hunt an area adjacent to public land and have been having good success with an assortment of 3 dozen decoys. I'm using two dozen mallards, one dozen Widgeon and two single pintail decoys. I also run a jerk string and a pull string wing decoy. My water size is 150 yds wide and 200 yards long. Over the past week though, I have noticed that the flock sizes have decreased on average from 20+ down to five or less. Do you guys start to decrease your spread size in January or do you stay with a larger spread knowing the ducks will have more confidence in landing in a spread with the larger number?

[wadu1]

I drop down to a dozen mixed decoys late in the season. I also run a jerk string with ducks butts. 

[duck stamp]

If you are having good luck with what you have been using I would say stay with it if not I would try maybe about half of what you have been using.   Good luck

[h2ofowlr]

If you have wind and lots of movement, more can be better.  No wind, less and better decoys are the ticket along with jerk strings.

[GregFowler23]

Most times just see whats working best for yourself. Every areas goin to be a little different. Try using the big spread and see how they react, if nothing happens change it up and pick up or use less decoys. But always keep the movement going.

[TheHunt]

I would only use 8 decoys and one spinner. I would put 3 hens and four drakes.   

[ICEMAN]

I would only use 8 decoys and one spinner. I would put 3 hens and four drakes.

You may want to check your math.

[D-Rock425]

1 spinner 4 drakes and 3 hens my math adds up to 8 but I'm from lake Stevens what do I know.

[92xj]

"and" being the key word. 

[D-Rock425]

You got me I told you I was from lake Stevens  .  Lets stop these math problems my head hurts.

[ICEMAN]

8 and 1 spinner is 9 last time I checked....and 3 plus 4 is........


Anyhow, who really cares, I just want to see more pics of ducks!!!

[D-Rock425]

Gadwal pic

[Widgeondeke]

I've always used less the last couple weeks. Use less dekes, but mix up the breeds. Throw in a pair of pintail or widgeon.
As was stated earlier tho. If 3 dozen are workin, don't change. Movement is critical.

[msteffens55]

Headed out on Monday, when I got to my spot I realized I forgot my decoy bag (I know... I know).
I opened my tool box in my truck to find 1 old and cruddy looking drake spoonie deek. I figured what the heck, I was already out there, I'd hunt with it...

Killed three!

I wouldn't recommend hunting over one decoy, but it seemed to work. And the hike in and out was pretty pleasant!

[stickbuck]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I'll give it a shot in the morning. It's always nice to hear what other guys are using.