Korth Group Outdoor Education, Common Mistakes To Avoid When Calling Coyotes

With winter setting in and big game season wrapping up, many of us are shifting gears toward predator control. Coyotes are starting to develop thicker pelts and are more eager to respond to prey distress calls as the temperatures drop. As we head into the field and set up our calling stands, it’s important to keep a few key factors in mind to gain an edge over these cunning predators. Coyotes are far from foolish, and the mistakes we make when calling them only make them more cautious and educated. Like any wild animal, they learn from dangerous encounters and will avoid similar situations in the future. In this edition of Korth Group Outdoor Education, we are going to explore some of common mistakes hunters make when setting up calling stands, and tips on how to avoid them. While this is another subjective topic and there are countless lessons to learn, these tips have personally helped me become a more effective coyote hunter.

AVOID OVERCALLING
Overcalling is a very common mistake hunters make when targeting coyotes, and it can quickly turn a promising area into a frustrating dead zone. Calling the same area too often, even with slight variations in sequence or sound, can condition coyotes to recognize the calls as unnatural or threatening. This is especially true if calling stands are set up too close to one another, as predators are territorial and will associate the repeated disturbances with danger. Additionally, coyotes can become wary if a calling sequence is overly aggressive or used too frequently. While a distressed prey call might initially spark curiosity or hunger, excessive repetition or high-volume sequences can make even bold coyotes suspicious. It’s crucial to give hunting areas ample time to “rest” and space out your stands to avoid overlapping pressure. By moderating your approach, using subtle, natural calls, and rotating locations, you can maintain the element of surprise and keep coyotes receptive to your setups.

FAILING TO SCOUT PROPERLY
Failing to scout the area properly is a critical mistake that can lead to hours of unproductive calling. One of the biggest missteps is not identifying active coyote territories before setting up. Using coyote locator calls the night before your hunt can help pinpoint areas where local groups are active, giving you a clearer picture of their range. Equally important is understanding the landscape. Overlooking key features like travel corridors, denning areas, and feeding zones often results in calling areas where coyotes aren’t likely to be. Flat, open fields that stretch endlessly may look enticing but typically lack the cover and structure that coyotes use for concealed movement. Instead, focus on setting up near tree bluffs, natural drainages, or other terrain features that serve as travel routes or provide shelter. These areas not only align with coyote behavior but also offer you a chance to stay concealed, increasing the odds of a successful setup and minimizing the risk of being spotted or winded. With modern technology and e-scouting apps it is easy to research specific areas and their typographical layout prior to arriving in the area.

POOR NAVIGATING TO YOUR CALLING STAND
Neglecting to move carefully and remain inconspicuous on your way to a calling stand is a mistake that can alert coyotes before you even start calling. Walking in the open across a field or ridge line makes you highly visible and nearby coyotes will be able to see you before you see them. Instead, use low-lying drainages or draws to stay out of sight and avoid sky lining yourself against the horizon. It is best to travel along natural tree lines or areas with cover to blend into the surrounding environment as much as possible. By staying in the shadows rather than well-lit areas further reduces your chances of being spotted, especially during early morning or late afternoon hunts when the light is softer, but angles are sharper. Every step toward your stand should prioritize concealment, ensuring you don’t alert the keen eyes and ears of a nearby coyote.

IMPROPER SETUPS
Improper stand setups can be detrimental. Poor concealment, such as sitting in an exposed location or leaving your vehicle out in the open, immediately draws attention to unnatural elements in the environment. It is recommended to use natural foliage and camouflage to blend in and position yourself where shadows and cover help you stay hidden. Wind direction is another critical factor often overlooked. Coyotes rely heavily on their sense of smell, and while scent control measures help, it’s nearly impossible to outsmart a coyote’s nose. Set up with the wind in your favor, ensuring your scent isn’t carried toward the coyotes’ approach. Additionally, avoid calling toward the sun, as it can both obscure your vision and highlight your position to incoming coyotes. Instead, position the sun at your back, allowing its glare to work to your advantage by illuminating the coyotes’ entry area while keeping you in the shadows.

NOT STAYING ALERT
Remember, stay sharp and alert! Coyotes can appear suddenly and often from unexpected directions, so it’s crucial to keep your head on a swivel from the moment you turn the call on. Ensure your firearm is loaded and ready before you begin calling, with the safety engaged. Keep in mind that safety is your number one priority, however it’s far quieter and quicker to click off the safety when a coyote is inbound than to rack a round into the chamber and risk spooking it. Staying prepared minimizes unnecessary movement, which is critical since coyotes are highly alert and will respond to even the slightest noise or motion. Remaining vigilant and ready ensures you can capitalize on any chance that comes your way without giving yourself away.

In closing, mastering the art of coyote hunting requires attention to detail, patience, and adaptability. By avoiding these common mistakes you can significantly improve your chances of success in the field. Coyotes are cunning predators with sharp senses, but with careful preparation and smart strategies, you can outmaneuver even the wariest of them. As you venture out this winter, remember that every hunt is an opportunity to learn and refine your techniques. With practice and persistence, you’ll not only become a better coyote hunter but also gain a deeper appreciation for the challenge these predators bring to the hunt.