Basic Predator Hunting Tips

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What calls do I need to call predators?- Our experts have found that you can call coyotes and other predators with practically any type of predator call, but like most animals, predators do respond to some sounds more often than others. We would recommend some type of rabbit in distress, such as a cottontail or jackrabbit. They are very effective on all predators.

I know the predators are there, why won't they respond?- There are many possibilities, but if you're sure that there are predators within hearing distance of you calls, there is probably some problem in your setup. (Be sure that you are careful in the following: 1. Approach your stand into the wind. 2. Be very quiet going to, and at your stand. 3. Don't call to loud to begin with. 4. Make sure your stand allows for good visibility and is well elevated.) Maybe the animals have found an abundant food source and just aren't hungry, in which case you will have to turn to a curiosity type sound such as a howler when calling coyotes. If this doesn't work E-mail us and we'll look into this a little further.

How do I know where to make a stand?- When our experts are hunting new territory, they look for an elevated area with some sort of cover such as rocks, a soap weed, sagebrush, etc. Be sure to leave an open area both in front and downwind of your stand. Try to set up so that the animal will cross this open area en route to the call. Watch out for nearby draws, as predators will come up the draw and can come very close without being seen.

What caliber of rifle should I use?- The most popular predator gun is probably the .22-250, but any caliber larger than a .22 will do.

Do electronic calls work effectively?- Our experts have found that electronic calls can work very effectively in predator hunting. They are more expensive of course, but offer the widest variety of sounds also. We recommend either the Johnny Stewart or Lohman brands.

How should a howler be used?- When howling for coyotes, there are basically two types of howls that are helpful in attracting coyotes. The Locator howl can be used to locate coyotes. It is a low pitched, long, drawn-out howl that tapers off slightly at the end. It should be used when you're trying to pinpoint the location of coyotes before you start your hunt, or at the beginning of your calling stand. Make a couple of barks and go into your howl and repeat three times. If nothing answers, proceed with your distress calls. If a coyote does answer, just repeat what the coyote does and try to "talk" him in. If this occurs, you'll probably recognize the second important type of howl, the Challenge howl. A Challenge howl consists of a few short aggressive barks and a short high pitched howl that cuts off sharply. The secret to this type of howl is to sound very aggressive, which will stimulate a response in any dominant coyote that is within hearing distance.

Is it ever too hot or cold to call predators?- In the last four years, Hppconline has studied the habits of predators in all types of weather at different times of the year. The results? During times of extreme temperatures, predators will usually wait for the minimum of the extremity before venturing out to find food and water. This means that the animals will be more active at night during the hot summers, and more active during the warmest time of the day in the frigid winters of the north. Therefore, expect higher success rates during the times of highest activity.