Coyote hunting has long been a favored activity among outdoor enthusiasts, blending the thrill of the chase with the challenge of outsmarting a cunning predator. As apex predators themselves, coyotes have adapted to a variety of environments across North America, making them a fascinating subject for hunters. This pursuit is not just about hunting; it’s about understanding the animal, its habits, and the environment it inhabits. From the early dawn hours to the dusk of twilight, coyote hunting demands both skill and patience. For those interested in learning more or seeking resources on the subject, coyotehunting.org offers valuable information and insights to enhance the hunting experience.
Hunting coyotes requires an approach that combines patience and persistence with the right gear. For coyote hunting, your gear should include a quality rifle that has the ability to reach out and shoot long distances, as well as a good bipod or tripod for steadying your gun. You’ll also want a good pair of binoculars and a capable rangefinder to help with scouting and setting up, and a butt pad to keep your rear out of the mud and snow that is common during these types of predator hunts. Finally, a quality camo or earth-toned (or snow camo) hat and shirt will help you blend in with your surroundings and conceal yourself better.
The first step in taking on the coyote is scouting your area to determine its potential as a hunting spot. Look for tracks (they are small and wide) and droppings, paying special attention to dark dung that indicates an abundance of food in the area. Also, listen for locator howls, as coyotes will howl when they hear other coyotes in the vicinity.
Once you have found a promising area, plan your hunts around peak activity periods. For example, during the winter, when coyotes are less nocturnal and traveling in packs more than in the summer, you should be able to hunt them more frequently. Likewise, during deer season, they will frequent the birthing grounds of does in search of an easy meal when fawns are born.
When you’re on the hunt, try to be as quiet as possible to avoid spooking the varmints. This is especially important when hunting in populated suburban and exurban areas, where a gunshot can be heard by people nearby. Using a suppressor such as the BANISH 223 can help with this, reducing your report to below-legal noise levels and protecting your neighbors’ hearing.
Another trick to this type of hunting is utilizing a coyote caller to draw the animals into your setup. There are mouth calls and electronic callers, both of which can be effective. However, the most important thing to remember is that these predators have excellent eyesight and hearing, so you should always keep your calls at a low volume to avoid disturbing them. Having the BANISH suppressor on your rifle will help, as it offers a 38 decibel sound reduction, making it much quieter than a standard muzzleloader. The BANISH’s expansion tube and seven baffles also protect your hearing and those of anyone near you who may not be wearing a suppressor.