Which Distress Calls Are Best for Early Season Coyotes?

Choosing the Right Distress Call for Early Season Coyotes

When it comes to hunting coyotes in early season, the right distress call can make all the difference. Coyotes are highly intelligent and adaptable predators, so it’s essential to use a call that imitates the sounds of their typical prey, such as rabbits or squirrels. A series of 2-3 yips, lasting around 1-2 seconds each, can be an effective call to use in early season. These short, high-pitched calls mimic the sounds of a rabbit or squirrel in distress, triggering a coyote’s natural hunting instincts.

Call Variation and Volume

To increase the effectiveness of your distress call, experiment with varying the volume and tone to mimic different sounds and scenarios. For example, you can use a lower-pitched, more drawn-out call to mimic a rabbit in distress, or a series of high-pitched yips to mimic a squirrel being chased. Varying the volume can also help to create a more realistic sound, as if the animal is moving through the underbrush or getting closer to the coyote. Aim for a volume that’s loud enough to carry across open terrain, but not so loud that it scares away the coyote.

Setting Up and Calling

When setting up to call coyotes, choose a location with good cover and a clear shot at a nearby water source or food source. Use a call that’s easy to see and hear, and position yourself so that you can see the coyote’s approach without being seen. Start with a series of 2-3 yips, pausing for 30 seconds to a minute between each series, and adjust your call as needed based on the coyote’s response. Keep in mind that coyotes are highly intelligent and can recognize a repetitive or predictable call, so be sure to mix up your call and keep it unpredictable to maintain the coyote’s interest.