The decoy just won't be very effective if the rut isn't in full swing. We've tried it here in CO. on numerous occasions, and the bow season is just too early for it to work.
Actually seems like here in eastern CO. that the rut is in full swing during rifle season.
If you're getting to with-in 35 yards doing spot and stalk, then it's jsut a matter of time before you score. I'll bet that after toteing that decoy around for a week, you'll be back to spot and stalk.