Is it worth pigeon decoying over tall rape fields?

Pigeon shooting
PETER THEOBALD
This is a question I am often asked, as most people rightly point out that pigeons cannot reach the heads on rape plants.

But what they often fail to realise, is that if pigeons are seen disappearing into a field of rape, there will undoubtedly be an area that the birds will have grazed down, and still have green leaves available.

These areas, if you can locate them, are manna from heaven for the decoyer, as they will represent your best chance of making a bag since the pigeons started on the rape back in November.

Most fields will have grown away by the beginning of April, so these small areas concentrate the birds, and, coming at a time when the winter flocks are breaking up, and the farmers are removing their gas scarers, you can see why big scores can be made.