Photo by Chris Philpot

Strutting gobbler decoys are hot items now, and for good reason: They work. But they're also pricey and a pain to carry. A real gobbler fan costs nothing and packs easily—and can be as effective as the full-blown fake. Here's how to put a bird's tail feathers to work for you.

[1] Remove the entire fan by cutting around the fleshy base of the tail. Trim the flesh and fat, being sure to remove the milky-white oil glands. Using three long heavy T-pins, tack the fan onto a large cardboard box, and push the pins all the way through for a secure hold. Place one pin through the base of the tail and one each through the middle of the quills of the left- and rightmost feathers. Pour salt or borax onto the butt end to preserve the fan. It should be dry and ready for Steps 2 and 3 in two weeks.

Photo by Chris Philpot

[2] Drill four 1/8-inch holes in the butt end. For the stake, use an 18-inch length of 3/4-inch PVC pipe. Cut one end at a 45-degree angle so you can easily drive it into the ground. Scuff the PVC with sandpaper and spray-paint it a dull color, like matte black.

Photo by Chris Philpot

[3] Flip the fan over and secure it to the stake with two 8-inch cable ties threaded through the holes drilled in Step 2. Cinch another tie at the top of the stake as a collar to keep the fan from sliding off the top. To take it hunting, fold the fan in half or thirds lengthwise and stuff it in your vest.

Photo by Chris Philpot