Thanks for the tips. I have been hunting for about 15 years but never serously, only when the rivers were not cooperating for steelhead. I just had ultra easy access. This is the first year i am actually paying attention. I keep hearing this "X" does that mean "dashit"?
Some of the best duck hunts come with a little scouting. Drive around and find where the birds are sitting and when, head back the next day, hide very well and regardless of 2 decoys or 200, you'll pound them. That's where they feel safe and they will go there.
But, there are public spots, especially larger bodies of water that require more decoys to draw attention. Many of our best days have come over 100+ decoys. Last year we had a spot that we collectively shot 5 guys for 5 days and shot limits every day and 90% of those birds were widgeon.
Those pintails you speak of are hard headed, over the years I've noticed they really like big spreads and bigger water. Putting out a dozen or two pintails can't hurt but I don't think you'll find much difference from what you are already using. More of any decoy would likely help.
I don't really feel the species of decoys you use really affects as much as quality of the decoy. JMHO...
Keith