Decoy line ??

[Dennis J]

When building decoys does the anchor line attachment point need to be at the end of the decoy? Or can it be back a bit? 1/4 1/3 way back? & how would this effect the way the decoy rides? Any info helps. Thanks
Dennis

[hankyorke]

Are you talking about birds for long lines or single droppers?  Current or still water?

[Dennis J]

Sorry here's more info. Single rigged, lakes & marshes for now(my 6hp rude isn't enough for the river)I'm trying Trex, 1 1/16 thickX5 1/2"wide. I cut 1 1/4", routed a round over on edges & ended up with  3 3/4oz keel. They seem to self right ok on thr bench, but I havnt floated for balance yet. It looks like they will have the line tye off bout 1/4 back from the front edge of the decoy & I wondered if this will be ok. Thanks.
Dennis

[Jacob Carlson]

Dennis, I think with a variety of "termination points" on the keel front, back, middle... you'll have good variety in positions and behavior in wind.
I generally don't use a keel but have on a few of my decoys.  I like them riding the top of the water moving very well in almost no breeze.  A keel seems to hamper that.

Also... you could always drill three holes in your keel and experiment?

[shaneo]

Dennis,
     I have been experimenting with this concept. I have put some in the middle and on the back trying to get a more natural look to the spread. I Have not had a chance to get out in some good wind to see how the ones do with it anchored in the center but they do seem to look pretty dang good and the best thing is  there not all facing the same direction as if they are all on alert . I am going to keep playing with the idea.
Shane