When Is the Best Time to Hunt Coyotes?
Coyote hunting has become increasingly popular among hunters seeking year-round opportunities and effective predator management. Understanding when to hunt coyotes can significantly impact your success rate, whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting your coyote hunting journey.
The best time to hunt coyotes varies by season, weather conditions, and local regulations, but generally, late fall through early spring offers the most productive hunting opportunities. During these months, coyotes are more active, their fur is prime, and vegetation provides less cover.
Seasonal Coyote Hunting Calendar
Fall Coyote Hunting (September - November)
Fall represents one of the prime coyote hunting seasons for several compelling reasons:
- Increased activity: Coyotes are actively hunting to build fat reserves for winter
- Dispersal period: Young coyotes leave their family groups, creating more movement
- Improved visibility: Vegetation begins to thin, offering better shooting opportunities
- Cooler temperatures: More comfortable hunting conditions for extended periods
Best fall hunting times: Early morning (30 minutes before sunrise to 10 AM) and late afternoon (3 PM to 30 minutes after sunset).
Winter Coyote Hunting (December - February)
Winter is widely considered the absolute best time to hunt coyotes for multiple reasons:
Advantages of Winter Coyote Hunting:
- Peak fur quality: Coyote pelts are at their thickest and most valuable
- Breeding season activity: Increased movement during mating season (January-February)
- Minimal vegetation: Snow and bare trees provide excellent visibility
- Tracking opportunities: Snow reveals travel patterns and den locations
- Longer calling success: Hungry coyotes respond more readily to distress calls
According to the National Trappers Association, winter harvests account for approximately 60% of annual coyote hunting success.
Spring Coyote Hunting (March - May)
Spring hunting presents unique opportunities but requires different strategies:
- Denning season: Coyotes are protective of pups and territories
- Increased daylight: Longer hunting windows
- Varied response: Some areas see increased activity, others decreased
- Fur quality decline: Pelts begin shedding and lose value
Summer Coyote Hunting (June - August)
While summer offers year-round hunting opportunities in many areas:
- Early morning focus: Best activity occurs before dawn
- Thermal hunting: Night vision and thermal scopes become valuable
- Water source hunting: Target areas near water during drought conditions
- Fur quality: Lowest pelt value due to summer coat
Daily Timing for Coyote Hunting Success
Dawn Hunting (Peak Activity Period)
The 30 minutes before sunrise to 2 hours after represents the most productive daily hunting window:
- Coyotes are naturally most active during dawn
- Cooler temperatures encourage movement
- Prey animals are active, attracting coyotes
- Wind conditions are typically most favorable
Evening Hunting Sessions
Two hours before sunset until 30 minutes after dark offers the second-best opportunity:
- Coyotes begin evening hunting routines
- Prey animals move to feeding areas
- Thermal imaging becomes effective as temperatures drop
Night Hunting Considerations
Where legal, night hunting can be extremely effective:
- Peak coyote activity occurs between 10 PM and 2 AM
- Requires proper lighting and thermal equipment
- Check local regulations - many states restrict night hunting
- Safety considerations are paramount
Weather Conditions and Coyote Behavior
Optimal Weather Patterns
Light wind conditions (5-15 mph) create ideal hunting scenarios:
- Helps carry scent and calling sounds
- Doesn't interfere with accurate shooting
- Coyotes remain active and responsive
Overcast skies often produce better results than bright, sunny days:
- Coyotes feel more secure moving in subdued light
- Reduces glare for better optics performance
- Often coincides with increased prey activity
Weather to Avoid
- Heavy rain or snow: Reduces scent dispersal and calling effectiveness
- Extreme cold (below 0°F): Coyotes conserve energy and move less
- High winds (over 20 mph): Interferes with calling and shooting accuracy
Moon Phase Impact on Coyote Hunting
Research from wildlife biologists suggests moon phases influence coyote activity patterns:
New Moon Period
- Increased daytime activity: Coyotes hunt more during daylight hours
- Better calling response: Hungry coyotes respond more readily
- Optimal for day hunting: Peak activity shifts to dawn and dusk
Full Moon Period
- Increased nighttime activity: Coyotes hunt more at night
- Reduced daytime movement: Less active during traditional hunting hours
- Night hunting advantages: Where legal, full moon periods excel
Regional Considerations for Timing
Northern States and Canada
- Extended winter season: December through March offers prime hunting
- Later spring activity: Snow cover extends optimal hunting periods
- Extreme weather impact: Plan around severe weather systems
Southern States
- Year-round opportunities: Less seasonal variation in activity
- Summer thermal hunting: Night hunting becomes more important
- Breeding season variation: Earlier breeding cycles affect timing
Western States
- High altitude considerations: Weather patterns vary significantly by elevation
- Drought impact: Water sources become critical during dry periods
- Terrain challenges: Rocky, mountainous areas require different approaches
Hunting Pressure and Timing Strategy
Avoiding Hunting Pressure
Weekday hunting often produces better results than weekends:
- Less competition from other hunters
- Reduced human activity in hunting areas
- Coyotes experience less pressure and stress
Post-season hunting can be highly effective:
- After deer season ends, human activity decreases
- Coyotes return to normal movement patterns
- Less competition for prime hunting locations
Equipment Considerations by Season
Cold Weather Gear
- Insulated clothing: Essential for extended winter sits
- Hand warmers: Maintain dexterity for accurate shooting
- Cold weather optics: Prevent fogging and maintain clarity
Warm Weather Equipment
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: Comfort during long summer hunts
- Thermal imaging: Becomes more effective as ambient temperatures rise
- Hydration systems: Essential for extended summer hunting sessions
Legal Considerations and Regulations
Season Dates and Bag Limits
Before planning your coyote hunting schedule, consult your state's wildlife agency:
- Season dates: Vary significantly by state and region
- Bag limits: Some states have restrictions, others allow unlimited harvest
- Hunting methods: Regulations on calling, night hunting, and equipment use
- License requirements: Ensure proper hunting licenses and tags
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides comprehensive information on federal regulations affecting coyote hunting.
Property Access and Permission
- Private land permission: Always obtain written permission
- Public land regulations: Check specific rules for each hunting area
- Safety zones: Maintain required distances from buildings and roads
Advanced Timing Strategies
Barometric Pressure Influence
Falling barometric pressure often triggers increased coyote activity:
- Animals sense approaching weather changes
- Increased feeding activity before storms
- Monitor weather apps for pressure trends
Breeding Season Specifics
January through February represents peak breeding activity:
- Males travel extensively seeking mates
- Territorial disputes increase movement
- Howling and vocalizations peak
- Pair bonding creates predictable patterns
Denning Season Considerations
April through June requires modified strategies:
- Adult coyotes become extremely territorial
- Pup distress calls become highly effective
- Focus on areas near known den sites
- Exercise caution - protective parents are aggressive
Common Timing Mistakes to Avoid
Hunting During Peak Human Activity
- Avoid hunting during heavy recreational use periods
- Early morning reduces human interference
- Weekday hunting often more productive than weekends
Ignoring Local Patterns
- Study your specific area: Local coyote behavior varies
- Keep hunting logs: Track successful times and conditions
- Adapt to pressure: Modify timing based on hunting pressure
Weather Dependency
- Don't rely solely on "perfect" conditions
- Coyotes must eat regardless of weather
- Adapt strategies to current conditions rather than waiting
Technology and Timing Optimization
Weather Apps and Tools
Recommended apps for coyote hunters:
- WeatherBug: Detailed barometric pressure tracking
- Windy: Wind speed and direction forecasting
- SolunarCast: Moon phase and animal activity predictions
Trail Camera Intelligence
Strategic camera placement reveals local timing patterns:
- Monitor travel corridors and feeding areas
- Identify peak activity times for specific locations
- Track seasonal pattern changes
- Document response to hunting pressure
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day are coyotes most active?
Coyotes are most active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular activity), with peak movement occurring 30 minutes before sunrise to 2 hours after, and 2 hours before sunset until 30 minutes after dark. However, coyotes are opportunistic and may be active at any time when food sources are available.
Is it better to hunt coyotes in winter or summer?
Winter is generally better for coyote hunting due to several factors: prime fur quality, increased activity during breeding season, better visibility through bare vegetation, and coyotes' increased caloric needs. Summer hunting can be productive but requires different strategies like thermal hunting and focusing on water sources.
What weather conditions are best for coyote hunting?
Optimal conditions include: light winds (5-15 mph), overcast skies, and stable or falling barometric pressure. Avoid hunting during heavy precipitation, extreme cold (below 0°F), or high winds above 20 mph, as these conditions reduce coyote activity and calling effectiveness.
How does moon phase affect coyote hunting success?
New moon periods typically produce better daytime hunting as coyotes shift activity to daylight hours. Full moon periods increase nighttime activity, making night hunting more productive where legal. Plan your hunting schedule around these lunar patterns for optimal success.
When is coyote breeding season and how does it affect hunting?
Coyote breeding season typically occurs from January through February, creating excellent hunting opportunities. During this time, males travel extensively seeking mates, territorial disputes increase movement, and coyotes respond well to vocalizations and calls.
Can you hunt coyotes year-round?
In most states, coyotes can be hunted year-round with proper licenses, though some states have specific seasons or restrictions. Always check your local wildlife agency regulations for season dates, bag limits, and legal hunting methods before planning your hunt.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Coyote Hunting Success
The best time to hunt coyotes combines optimal seasonal timing, daily activity periods, and favorable weather conditions. Winter months from December through February offer the most consistent success, with dawn and dusk providing peak daily opportunities.
Successful coyote hunting requires understanding local patterns, adapting to changing conditions, and maintaining detailed records of your experiences. By focusing on the proven timing strategies outlined in this guide, you'll significantly improve your success rate and enjoy more productive hunting seasons.
Remember to always hunt safely, follow local regulations, and practice ethical hunting techniques. Whether you're managing predator populations on your property or pursuing coyotes for sport, proper timing remains the foundation of successful coyote hunting.
Start planning your next coyote hunting adventure by identifying the optimal seasons and daily timing windows for your specific area. With patience, persistence, and proper timing, you'll experience the excitement and challenge that makes coyote hunting one of North America's most rewarding hunting opportunities.