Converting water keels decoys into weighted keels

[Skack]

-With Drundel’s new tips page I thought I’d pass on something that was shown to me several years ago. This particular tip allows you to have a weighted and water keel decoys with only one set. If you have a set of water keel and sometimes find your self needing weighted keel, than this is the deal for you. It helps you cut down on the amount of storage you need if you had to store both sets of decoys as well as cuts out the mess, inconsistency and permanent nature of sand and silicone.

Materials needed:

1. One decoy ( I used an old Flambeau here but it will work with most any decoy on the market. I have it done in G&Hs, GHGs, and Flambeaus with some modifications.)

2. One lead strap weighted available at Academy, Wal-Mart, Bass Pro or any place that sells decoys.

3. ¼” drill bit
4. One black zip tie.
5. Cutting pliers

Since I prefer water keel dekes for movement, I have been known to drain the sand from some of mine for water keel usage. With a little cutting on the keel, I have made them able to accept the strap weight when I needed to convert them back to weighted keel. This tip also shines for people with the newer Flam pintails that have a tendency to easily roll in higher winds.

Hope some of you fellas can put it to use.

[Skack]

-Lay strap weight across keel and center it for optimal balance. Mark hole in preparation for drilling.

[Skack]

-Using the ¼” drill bit, drill hole and clean away any burrs.

[Skack]

-Slide strap weight in like so….in the new Flams, you’ll need to go in the back. If your keels are short like some of the newer Flams, fold the back part of the strap weight over or cut off the lead that sticks out.

[Skack]

-Line up holes in strap weight and keel …run zip tie through and zip.

[Skack]

-Clip off tail of zip tie with cutting pliers and you are finished. You now have a weighted keel deke that can easily be converted back into a water keel with a pair cutting pliers. Keep a supply of zip ties on hand for conversions back to weighted keel.


Good Luck Fellas!

[TexasGeese]

Good Tip. Ive also seen it done with drilling 2 heavy bolts into the keel. Same effect.

[20gabismuth]

Skack...........I'll say it again, that is a badass idea dude!!!

[Lone Star Dux]

Very clever. I like it!