Quick Answer
For night hunting, the best coon calls are those that mimic the sounds raccoons make to communicate, such as a high-pitched "bark-like" sound or a softer, more nasal "chirp." Calls with adjustable pitches and volumes are ideal for adapting to different situations. Top brands like Primos and Foothill offer high-quality coon calls.
Nighttime Coon Call Selection
When selecting a coon call for nighttime hunting, consider the environment and the raccoons’ behavior at night. A good call should be loud enough to carry through the darkness, yet not so loud as to scare off the raccoons. I recommend the Primos Truth Call, which features a high-pitched bark and a softer chirp. This call’s adjustable pitch and volume allow you to tailor your calling to the situation.
Techniques for Using Coon Calls at Night
When using coon calls at night, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and the raccoons’ behavior. Use a headlamp to spot any movement and keep your dogs (coonhounds) within earshot. When calling, start with a high-pitched bark and gradually transition to a softer chirp. This will mimic the raccoons’ natural communication patterns and increase the likelihood of a response.
Tips for Competition Hunts
In competition hunts, every detail matters, including the coon call you use. For nighttime hunts, I recommend using a call with a built-in volume control, like the Foothill Coon Call. This allows you to adjust the call’s volume to suit the environment and the raccoons’ behavior. Additionally, practice your calling technique before the hunt to ensure you can produce a realistic raccoon sound. This will increase your chances of treeing a raccoon and impressing the judges.
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