re: what is the biggest decoy spread you hunt with on a semi-regular basis?

First split/early second depending on ducks: 12 greys, 14 GWT, 12 pouldeau.

Late second split: 4-8 greys depending on size of the pond.

I hunt Hopedale marsh and greys are our basket duck. I don't mess with a jerk string unless there's literally no wind, but it's always in the boat. I also never use Mojos and hunt in the marsh. Also, I have a 1442...so hauling a ton of gear with two-three guys isn't ideal.

A tip for working a jerk string by yourself: get a piece of thin metal tubing and bend it in the shape of an upside down J. Shove it into the mud under the water by your blind/spot and run the string underneath it. Ducks will see a string and they don't like it - especially later in the year. If you run it under the tubing it'll keep it hidden. When you're alone, just tie the end of the string next to you to a stick or something and keep it close on the opposite side your dog heels if you're working a dog. If you're calling and trying to run the string, do both until the ducks look like they're committed then drop the string back and grab your gun.