Coyote Hunting Guide: Best Times, Gear & Tips

Updated on February 7, 2025

Coyote hunting is an exciting and challenging activity that requires the right strategies and gear to be successful. If you’re wondering, “How can I effectively hunt coyotes, and what gear or techniques will help improve my success?”, you’re in the right place. This coyote hunting guide covers everything; from understanding the behavior of these wild animals to selecting the best equipment and hunting with dogs.

“In 2020, taxpayers funded the USDA’s predator management programs with around $20 million, resulting in the annual killing of over 80,000 coyotes—about 100 per day—by trained specialists.” – Hunter Nation

Reasons – Why do people hunt coyotes?

Coyotes are highly adaptable predators that can thrive in diverse environments. While their diet mainly consists of small animals, they are opportunistic and will prey on livestock, pets, and even young deer when food is scarce. Their growing population poses challenges for both farmers and conservationists. By hunting coyotes, hunters help control their numbers, reducing conflicts with livestock owners and preventing disruptions to local ecosystems.

Coyotes are intelligent and adaptable predators. They hunt both alone and in packs, depending on the availability of prey. Their diet includes small mammals, birds, insects, and even fruits. Understanding how coyotes hunt helps hunters anticipate their movements and improve their chances of a successful hunt.

Best Time

Timing is everything in hunting. The best time to hunt coyotes is during their peak activity periods, which are typically:

• Early Morning: Just after dawn when coyotes start their daily activities.
• Late Evening: As dusk falls, coyotes become more active again.
• At Night: With the right equipment, night hunting can be highly effective.

Hunting coyotes at night can be highly effective, especially with the right gear below.

Right Gear

Having the right gear is essential for a successful coyote hunt. Here are some must-have items:

• Firearms: A reliable rifle or shotgun is necessary for this predator hunting technique.
• Ammunition: Use appropriate ammunition for the firearm you’re using.
• Clothing: Wear camouflage clothing to blend into the environment.
• Boots: Sturdy, comfortable boots are important for navigating rough terrain.
• Safety Gear: Always carry a first aid kit and other safety essentials.
• Optics: Binoculars and scopes help you spot coyotes from a distance.
• Range Finder: Helps in accurately gauging the distance for a precise shot.
• Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry your gear and essentials.
• Scent Control: Use scent eliminators to avoid detection by coyotes’ keen sense of smell.
• Lighting Equipment: If hunting at night, include a high-quality spotlight or night vision equipment.
• Navigation Tools: GPS device or maps to navigate remote areas safely.
• Snacks and Hydration: Ensure you carry water and energy-rich snacks for long hours in the field.
• License and Regulations: Always carry your hunting license and comply with local regulations.
• Dog Gear: If hunting with dogs, ensure they have proper collars, leashes, and protective gear.

Recommended Scopes

A thermal scope is a game-changer for this predator hunting method. Investing in a quality thermal scope can enhance your hunting experience. Check out the top thermal scope brands below that provide high-quality thermal imaging to help you spot coyotes even in complete darkness.:

• FLIR ThermoSight Pro Series: Known for their clarity and range, these scopes are a favorite among hunters.
• ATN ThOR Series: Offers advanced features like video recording and Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Pulsar Trail Series: Durable and reliable, ideal for rugged hunting environments.

When choosing a thermal scope, consider factors like resolution, battery life, and ease of use to find the best option for your hunting needs.

Additionally, you can check Best Lightweight Hunting Rifle Scopes Under 2000 to get an idea about scopes for your hunting rifle.

Strategies & Techniques

Effective hunting involves a combination of tracking, stealth, and strategic placement.

Calls & Effective Use

Using coyote hunting calls can significantly increase your chances of success. These calls can mimic the sounds of coyotes or their prey, attracting coyotes to your location. Experiment with different calls to see which ones work best in your hunting area.

Using hunting calls effectively can attract coyotes to your location. Here’s how:

• Variety: Use different types of calls, such as distress calls or predator calls, to see what works best.
• Timing: Call during peak coyote activity times, such as early morning or late evening.
• Volume: Keep your calls loud enough to be heard but not so loud that they scare off coyotes.

Advanced Strategies

Implementing effective hunting strategies can improve your success rate. Consider the following:

• Stalking: Move quietly and slowly to get closer to coyotes without being detected.
• Stand Hunting: Use elevated stands to get a better view and reduce your scent footprint.
• Spot and Stalk: Spot coyotes from a distance, then carefully approach them for a better shot.

Coyote Hunting Dogs

Using dogs in the hunt can enhance your success. Some dogs are trained to track, chase, and sometimes corner coyotes, making it easier for hunters to take accurate shots. Breeds like American Foxhounds are popular due to their strong scent-tracking abilities and stamina.

Certain dog breeds are particularly effective due to their hunting instincts and physical capabilities. Some of the best dogs that hunt coyotes include:

• American Foxhound: Known for their tracking ability and stamina.
• Blackmouth Cur: Agile and strong, excellent for tracking and flushing out coyotes.
• Catahoula Leopard Dog: Intelligent and versatile, great for working in various terrains.
• Rat Terriers: Small but tenacious, effective in chasing and cornering coyotes.

American Foxhound Hunt Coyotes

American Foxhounds are excellent for hunting coyotes. Their keen sense of smell and endurance make them ideal for tracking coyotes over long distances. These dogs work alongside hunters to locate and flush out coyotes from their hiding spots.

Dogs that hunt coyotes not only help in tracking but also in controlling the coyote population. They can cover more ground and detect coyotes that might be hiding, increasing the likelihood of a successful hunt.

Coyote Hunting with Dogs

Hunting coyotes with dogs involves training your dogs to track and locate coyotes effectively. Here are some steps to get started:

1. Choose the Right Breed: Select a breed known for hunting and tracking abilities, such as American Foxhounds, Plott Hounds, or other scent-tracking and durable dogs suited for rugged terrains.

2. Training: Train your dogs to follow scents, alert you to their presence, and assist in flushing out or pursuing coyotes. This includes teaching commands, scent recognition, and socializing them to remain calm yet focused in hunting situations. Training is essential for dogs that hunt coyotes. Here are some training tips:

1. Scent Tracking: Train your dogs to follow coyote scents over long distances.
2. Obedience: Ensure your dogs respond well to commands and can work alongside you seamlessly.
3. Stamina: Build your dogs’ endurance through regular exercise and long hunting sessions.
4. Socialization: Expose your dogs to different environments and situations to make them adaptable hunters.

3. Gear: Equip your dogs with GPS collars for tracking, durable leashes, and protective gear to shield them from injuries, bites, or harsh environmental conditions.

4. Practice: Regularly practice hunting scenarios with your dogs to improve their skills, build endurance, and strengthen coordination with you and other dogs in the team.

5. Safety Precautions: Always prioritize the safety of your dogs by monitoring their health during and after hunts, providing hydration, and ensuring they are not overworked or exposed to unnecessary risks.

Coyote hunting with dogs is a highly skilled and rewarding activity that relies on teamwork, proper training, and responsible handling of your canine companions.

Safety Tips

Safety should always be a priority when hunting. Here are some essential safety tips:

• Know Your Surroundings: Be aware of the terrain and any potential hazards.
• Wear High-Visibility Clothing: Especially when hunting with dogs, to ensure everyone stays visible.
• Carry a First Aid Kit: Be prepared for any minor injuries or emergencies.
• Follow Firearm Safety Rules: Always handle your firearm responsibly and be aware of what’s beyond your target.
• Stay Sober: Avoid alcohol or drugs while hunting to stay alert and make sound decisions.

Final Thoughts

Coyote hunting can be a rewarding and exciting pursuit with the right knowledge, gear, and strategies. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter, these tips and strategies will help you enhance your hunting experience.

Remember to always prioritize safety, respect wildlife, and follow local hunting regulations. Happy hunting!