Becoming A Coyote Hunter
If you want to become a good coyote hunter you have to know that it takes a lot of practice, patience and research; you won’t become a good one overnight, it takes time to learn all the tips & tricks that will turn you into an efficient hunter. But you have to remember one thing: although you will read lots of books, see lots of videos on the Internet about coyote hunting, all this will never replace the real experience of coyote hunting; you have to see it for yourself in order to comprehend the entire activity; without the real experience, the research is useless.
First of all we are going to debate the topic of equipment which is one of the most important parts when it comes down to coyote hunting ( or any other type of hunting as a matter of fact ). Every coyote hunter will switch a lot of equipment until he will find the most suitable one for him. Basically, it depends on each and every person, not all people are the same so some of us prefer one type of equipment while others prefer a different one. Usually, first time coyote hunters start with a rifle. Choosing a rifle depends on the area where you will do your hunting. If you are planning to hunt in a wide open area then you should search for the flattest cartridge available that could reach a respectable distance of about 300 yards ( approximately 274 meters ). Experienced hunters affirm that the .220 Swift is the right option for this type of hunting. Other hunters say that the Remington 700VS is the perfect rifle, as I was saying earlier, it depends on the hunter. Of course, choosing a rifle depends on the available budget but if you know where to look you will find the best compromise.
While choosing a rifle you have to take into consideration that the coyote is a very clever animal which is almost stubborn when it comes down to survival so don’t make a mistake by choosing a rifle which has unknown capabilities just to save a few dollars. If you plan to be efficient then you have to get the right tools. Many coyote hunters say that the most efficient rounds are between the .222 and 6mm Remington ( keep this in mind when you are at a rifle shop ). Once you have purchased a rifle be sure to keep it, don’t make the mistake that most beginners make when they buy their rifle and don’t seem to like it very much; give it a few more shots; I’m certain you will begin to accommodate with it pretty soon; as they say practice makes perfect; also it will build your self-confidence.
Calls are also a very important aspect that you have to take into consideration before you begin your hunting adventure. For beginners it is advisable to use a close reed model because many of these models come pre-tuned and will automatically give the needed cries and screams. A little inconvenient of these models is that they take a lot of time to practice in order to handle them efficiently but once you have done so you will be able to make a big variety of sounds which are more suitable in pressured areas. The market is full of models from which you can choose; one little example would be the Major Boddicker’s line of Crit’r Calls but there are also other alternatives from which you may take your pick.
As most of you know, the calling can prove to be decisive when you are out hunting coyotes. Here are some tips that will sure come in hand : the first one would be that you have to be very attentive when you approach your stand; sneaking is highly recommended, using low spots ( if available ). When you are climbing a hill be sure to walk as slowly as you can, taking each and every step at a time and also look in every direction. This will help you to see a sleeping coyote before he observes you.
There will be situations when you will spook non target animals like deer, grouse, pheasants or others. When you find yourself in such a situation you have to sit or more recommendable, lie down as soon as you can, keeping your eyes open all the time. All this because if there are any coyotes in the area, they will be looking all over in order to find out what scared them.
The minute you have reached your stand and sat down, you should rest for a few minutes in order to have your batteries full for the calling. While you rest, you should scan the surroundings and check if you haven’t been seen by any coyote while you were approaching. If a coyote saw you, try to shoot him but whatever you do, don’t attempt to call. If you can’t make the shot it is advisable to move onto the next stand or sneak if possible.
A lot of debates have been made regarding what to do the minute you have called in or shot a coyote. Some experienced hunters say that you would have to stop calling, others affirm that it is recommended that you have to use the distress sound. You should try both ways and see which one you consider to be more efficient.
All in all, in order to be an efficient coyote hunter you have to be a person with many skills, such as: stalking, tracking, spotting and let’s not forget calling and the most important skill: the ability to shoot efficiently. As you all know coyote’s are fast so I can assure you that they won’t quit without a fight.
