Quick Answer
Electric calls can be effective for luring pronghorn, particularly when used in conjunction with decoys and in areas with limited cover where animals are more likely to respond to vocalizations.
Choosing the Right Call
When it comes to calling pronghorn, it’s essential to select an electric call that mimics the unique sounds of the species, such as a bleat or a series of high-pitched yips. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center recommends using a call with a built-in volume control and a battery life of at least 6 hours. I prefer calls with a frequency range of 1-5 kHz, which is within the typical vocalization range of pronghorn.
Using Calls in Open Country
In open country, where pronghorn are accustomed to seeing humans, it’s crucial to use stealth and decoys to lure animals into range. Place decoys near a water source or in a natural funnel area, such as a gap in a fence or a narrow pass. Use the electric call to mimic the sounds of a pronghorn in distress or a female calling her young. Start with short, 2-3 second bursts of calling, followed by 10-15 seconds of silence. This pattern allows the pronghorn to become accustomed to the sound and increases the likelihood of a response.
Effective Calling Techniques
To maximize the effectiveness of electric calls when hunting pronghorn, it’s essential to understand the vocal patterns of the species. Pronghorn typically use a series of short, high-pitched calls to communicate with each other. When calling, focus on producing a series of 2-3 short yips, followed by a brief pause. This pattern should be repeated every 10-15 seconds. Additionally, consider using a calling sequence that mimics the sounds of a pronghorn in distress, such as a series of 5-7 short calls followed by a longer, more drawn-out bleat.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.