Coyote Hunting, A Target of Opportunity!

The Coyote is despised by many but can make for some great hunting sport while controlling the "Predator Population" at the same time. "Calling Coyotes" is the standard method of hunting but they can be a target of opportunity anytime you are in the woods hunting!

Some reasons you should consider hunting coyotes;

-Coyotes can increase your available target opportunities!
-Hunting coyotes can increase your time afield!
-Hunting coyotes will improve your hunting skills!
-Predator population control!
-A Coyotes makes a unique and beautiful trophy!

Take em when you see em!

Coyotes are one of, if not the most sought after predator in the field. Many hunters target these secretive animals exclusively, but for most, the Coyote is a target of opportunity. Every year Hunters take thousands of coyotes while hunting other species of game such as Turkeys & Deer. It‘s a lucky hunter who has been sitting in a deer stand on a slow morning and has a Coyote come loping by! Rarely do you see one of these speed demons standing still and it is extremely difficult to get a shot off at one with a bow.

A great way to get more hunting time in!

In many States Coyotes can he hunted year round. If you decide to hunt coyotes outside of the hunting season of other game animals you hunt it can greatly increase your time in the woods hunting.

Time spent chasing these cagey critters will only add
To your woodsman and hunting skills!

Every time you step in the woods you should be learning something new. If you don’t your not paying attention! Coyotes are super shy and unbelievably sharp! If you can harvest them consistently at close range you can consider yourself at the top of your game and the coyote a good tune up. If your skills are not this advanced, hunting the coyote will really increase them. If you can get your bow drawn on a coyote a deer will be a piece of cake. The coyote can teach you volumes about hunting, like how and when to move on an approaching animal, stand placement and many other things that hunters can use when hunting other species.

Predator populations require control like any
Other game species!

Like any other species, predator populations need to be kept in balance. If their numbers are left unchecked they can quickly get out of hand. Coyotes prey on all manors of game species including turkeys, quail, small game, small hogs and deer. They are particularly hard on deer fawns. When they begin to compete with you for the same game its time lower the population.

A trophy not every Hunter has!

Coyotes come in many color phases and can make both a beautiful and unique addition to your trophy room. The most common mount is a full body mount. There are a wide variety of manikins to choose from that include; full body, half body and shoulder mounts. The cost of a full body mount varies among taxidermist and also depends on how elaborate a base and habitat you desire if any, but the average is about $450. There are other options for remembering and honoring your trophy and include skull mounts, rugs and soft tanned hides. Be sure to choose a taxidermist wisely, check references and take a close look at their work.

A solid black dog is pretty uncommon and quite a prize!

Next time your out hunting deer or sitting in a turkey blind don’t overlook an opportunity at a Coyote if you should be so fortunate. They will probably be few and far between but if your lucky you might just end up with a unique trophy and another special hunt to remember.

Good Luck Hunting!
Larry Stephens

Photo's by Larry Stephens