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Is Early Morning A Good Time For .22 WMR Coyote Hunts?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

EARLY MORNING IS A GOOD TIME FOR .22 WMR COYOTE HUNTS BECAUSE COYOTES ARE LESS ACTIVE AND LESS ALERT, MAKING IT EASIER FOR HUNTERS TO GET CLOSE AND MAKE A CLEAN SHOT. THIS PERIOD ALSO OFFERS BETTER VISION AND WEATHER CONDITIONS. IT IS ESPECIALLY EFFECTIVE FOR HUNTERS WHO USE CALIBERS LIKE THE .22 WMR.

Coyote Behavior in Early Morning

Coyotes are naturally crepuscular, meaning they are most active during twilight hours, but early morning is a great time to hunt them. During this period, coyotes are less active and less alert, making it easier for hunters to get close and make a clean shot. This is because they are still recovering from a night of rest and are not yet fully alert to their surroundings.

Choosing the Right .22 WMR Rifle

When hunting coyotes with a .22 WMR rifle, it’s essential to choose a rifle with a high-quality scope and a flat-shooting bullet. Look for a rifle with a muzzle velocity of at least 2,000 feet per second (fps) and a scope with a magnification of 4x or higher. This will help you make accurate shots at distances of 100-200 yards, which is typical for coyote hunting. A flat-shooting bullet with a heavy weight, such as the 40-grain or 50-grain, will also help to ensure a clean kill.

Hunting Techniques in Early Morning

When hunting coyotes in early morning, it’s essential to move quietly and use camouflage to blend in with your surroundings. Look for areas with coyote sign, such as tracks or scat, and set up in a location where you can shoot uphill. This will help to ensure a clean shot and minimize the risk of wounding the coyote. Use a bipod or shooting stick to stabilize your rifle, and take your time to make a precise shot.

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