what is the best coyote call

2 min read 13-12-2024

What's the Best Coyote Call? A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Predator Caller

Finding the best coyote call can feel overwhelming. The market is flooded with options, each promising to lure in the wily canine. But the "best" call isn't a single device; it's the one that works best for you and your hunting style, considering factors like location, prey availability, and even the time of year. This guide breaks down the top coyote call types and helps you choose the one that'll bring you success.

Understanding Coyote Vocalizations

Before diving into specific calls, understanding coyote communication is key. Coyotes utilize a complex array of vocalizations, including:

Howls: Long, drawn-out sounds used for communication over long distances, often territorial.
Barks: Shorter, sharper sounds, used for alarm or aggression.
Yips: High-pitched, short sounds used for communication within a pack.
Whines: Low-pitched, plaintive sounds, often associated with distress or begging.
Pups' Distress Calls: High-pitched cries that simulate a pup in distress. These are incredibly effective.

Top Coyote Call Types

Several call types mimic these natural coyote sounds. Let's explore some of the most popular and effective:

1. Electronic Coyote Calls:

Pros: Offer a wide range of sounds, easy volume control, and pre-programmed sequences. Great for beginners.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options. Overuse of electronic calls can desensitize coyotes in a given area.
Examples: FoxPro, Johnny Stewart, and Primos all offer high-quality electronic calls.

2. Handheld Coyote Calls:

Pros: Affordable, lightweight, and versatile. Allows for more nuanced sound manipulation.
Cons: Requires practice to master the sounds. You’ll need to practice to convincingly mimic coyote vocalizations.
Examples: Mouth calls (like the reed call), diaphragm calls, and various types of predator calls.

3. Predator Calls (Rabbit Distress, Bird Distress):

Pros: Mimic the sounds of common coyote prey, triggering their predatory instincts.
Cons: Less versatile than coyote-specific calls; effectiveness depends heavily on the presence of the prey animal’s sound in the area.
Examples: Many electronic and handheld calls incorporate these sounds.

4. Combination Calls:

Pros: Often include multiple sounds to create a more realistic scenario, allowing you to shift between different calls seamlessly.
Cons: Can be more complex to operate effectively.
Examples: Many electronic callers offer pre-programmed sequences that combine howls, barks, and distress calls.

Choosing the Right Call for You:

The best coyote call depends on your experience level and hunting style:

Beginners: An electronic call with pre-programmed sequences is ideal, as it requires less skill to operate and covers various sound options.
Experienced callers: A combination of handheld calls (for fine-tuned sounds) and an electronic caller for backup can provide unparalleled versatility.
Specific situations: If you know coyotes are hunting rabbits in your area, a rabbit distress call can be highly effective. Similarly, pup distress calls are usually highly effective.

Tips for Effective Coyote Calling:

Location, location, location: Choose a spot with good visibility and wind direction to your advantage.
Practice: Before hunting, practice your calls to master the sounds and timing. This is crucial for handheld calls.
Patience: Coyotes can be cautious; don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a response immediately. Vary your calls and techniques.
Ethical considerations: Always hunt responsibly and ethically, adhering to all local regulations and hunting laws.

Conclusion: There's No One-Size-Fits-All

Ultimately, the best coyote call is the one you're most comfortable and proficient with. Consider your experience, budget, and hunting style to make an informed decision. Experiment with different types of calls to discover what works best in your hunting area. Remember, success in coyote calling comes down to understanding coyote behavior, practicing your skills, and being patient. Happy hunting!