This was the first year we could use decoys in Alabama. From my experience this season---the answer to your question would be---it depends.

My second hunt of the year I had about 8 hens in a grassy field leading a struting Tom right to me. When the hens got sight of the decoys (they were about 80 yards from me) they hung up and did a 180 leading the Tom away. I did not use decoys the next several hunts.

From my hunt yesterday, I decided to put them out and a lone Tom came in silently to the dekes.

My gut feeling is that since it is late season----decoys might be productive for lonesome Toms looking for love.

Sooo---I'm not sure there is a good definitive answer to your question.