Coyote Calling 101: An Introductory Course

Why Coyote Hunt in Winter?

It's winter and the temperature is in single digits. Snow blankets the ground, and the sun is just about to break the horizon. While you may be dreading getting out of bed, I'm already sitting in the snow, about to start my first calling sequence of the day.

Winter for many means hitting the slopes or ice fishing. For me, it's another hunting season. It's when a predator's fur coat is prime and brings the best prices.

But maybe more importantly, it's the challenge of trying to outsmart a wily adversary that possesses keen senses and great eyesight. A predator that at this point in the game, is basically hunting you.

Most of what I've learned about predator hunting has been through trial and error. I made mistakes, and I've learned from them. Over the years, that has made me a more successful hunter. There are stands where I still get educated, but over the course of a day, I seldom get skunked anymore.

Here are some basic tips and tactics that will hopefully help you harvest more fur this winter.

Know the regulations and license requirements concerning predator hunting where you live.

Mouth calls

You can easily change the tempo and pitch of your calling, making each stand unique. The downside, they are prone to freezing-up in cold weather. And, predators can pinpoint your calling location, which makes getting a shot much more difficult.

[Any recommendations/tips on using mouth calls?]

With that said, I never hunt without a pocket full. Grab a few and practice with them prior to your next trip afield.

Electronic callers

Place your E-call away from your location, so predators zero in on its position and not yours. This allows you to get on target without being noticed, which is extremely beneficial for beginners.

[Pros/cons over traditional mouth call]

The Deadbone by FOXPRO is an easy-to-use entry level E-caller. Upgrade to an E-caller with FOXBANG, and you will have more shot opportunities per stand.

Decoys

Add a decoy to your calling, and you will also increase your chance at predators. [WHY?]

If you need a decoy, we've got a selection of coyote decoys online here.

Whether it is a stand-alone or attaches to your E-caller, decoys help entice call shy predators into range. FOXPRO makes great decoys to use with their E-callers.

Also, check out the Quiver Critter and the Montana Decoys.

Camouflage

It's a must. Camo clothes, gloves, hat, facemask, and even your gun (try Camo Form wrap by McNett). Sun reflection off anything and wary coyotes will turn tail and run. Break-up your outline by sitting against a bush or even a fence post, and minimize your movement and noise on stand. Practice good scent control as well.

[Any expansion here? Scent control?]

Stand location

Know the area you are calling. Pay close attention to wind direction, and always have your "downwind" covered. Hunting with a partner increases your chances of spotting incoming predators, and also allows for greater coverage at each stand. Stay on stand a minimum of 20-30 minutes. Most coyotes will come running within the first couple minutes, but occasionally there are stragglers. Keep the sun at your back when possible, and stay off the skyline.

There are many more categories we could cover with in-depth detail. Such as; locating predators, call selections, best time of day to hunt, distance between stand locations, rifle calibers, AR's and shotguns, and the list goes on.

But this is a good start. Stop by your local North 40 Outfitters and talk to one of our experienced predator hunters. They can assist you in gearing up, or to equip the hunter on your Holiday list.

On a final note, don't forget your shooting sticks, binoculars and rangefinder, have fun, be safe, and shoot straight.