How to Hunt Coyotes Without Calling

by
posted on November 20, 2017
coyoteswithoutcalls_lead.jpg

It can be as challenging to charm a coyote into bullet range as to predict the eruption of the Yellowstone volcano. So ditch the call, and consider deer strategies for a fur reward.

Take a Stand
Coyotes prefer the path of least resistance when not in danger. Scout pathways to ambush a roamer. Your deer-hunting outings likely provide insight on coyote travel corridors: think edges, openings, trails, connected habitat. Also scout for rodents and small game. Set up a treestand or post on an elevated knob.

Spot and Stalk
Rolling hayfields and picked cornfields offer opportunities to glass up a hunting or napping coyote. Ease up to fence lines and terrain to avoid being silhouetted. Glass carefully then move slowly to the next vantage. If you spot a coyote, mind the wind when advancing to shooting range behind terrain.

Feed Their Hunger
If regs allow baiting, scout woodland openings, field corners, clear-cuts and obscure locations to find a setting coyotes feel comfortable visiting day or night. Determine prevailing wind then locate a downwind site for a blind or stand. Acquire food scraps, preferably meat, and establish a bait pile. Check restaurants, meat processors and grocery stores; save table scraps and venison carcasses; or procure authorization to pick up roadkill. When the winds agree slip in for a long sit. If you restock on a schedule, coyotes may show up right after your visit. It’s a tactic black bear baiting experts have relied on for decades.

Drive ‘Em Out
Get pushy. Drive coyotes into shooting lanes with the help of friends. Push a coyote into the wind. Any sane coyote will only escape into the wind to check for danger. If the wind is wrong, abandon the push. Standers should enter from the sides and stay far enough away to avoid adding their scent to the scene. After confirming everyone is in position, drivers should walk slowly in a zigzag pattern to roust hidden coyotes. If the plan works coyotes will cross openings, and standers will have a front-row seat.

Latest

NRAAM 2025
NRAAM 2025

MidwayUSA Named Official Sponsor of the 2025 NRA Annual Meetings

Glock, Inc. is the Presenting Sponsor of the Freedom Experience on Saturday, April 26th

First Look: Montana Rifle Company Marshall Hunting Rifle

Montana Rifle Company (MRC) has announced its Marshall Hunting Rifle—a rifle the company bills as being 10,000 rounds in the making.

Spring Gobbler Gear Roundup

Mike Roux lays out his winter's turkey gear discoveries, just in time for spring gobbler season.

National 4-H Shooting Sports Signs on as Official +ONE Partner

The National 4-H Shooting Sports program has joined the +ONE Movement, a national mentorship initiative led by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) that encourages peer-to-peer mentorship in the hunting and shooting sports.

#SundayGunday: Wilson Combat NULA Model 20

On this week's #SunsdayGunday, we take a look at the Wilson Combat NULA Model 20. A descendant of the New Ultralight Arms rifles designed by Melvin Forbes, the Model 20 carries on Melvin's legacy of lightweight accuracy in a way only Wilson Combat can. For more information, check out this exclusive video.

New for 2025: Gritr 47-Inch Hard Rifle Case

Gritr has launched its 47-inch Hard Rifle Case, for shooters looking for portable security and protection for their firearm. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.