The coyote is considered one of the most cunning predators. Endowed with a keen sense of smell, incredible hearing and keen eyesight, he is not easily approached. If the adage says “cunning like a fox”, in our history, it is rather “cunning like a coyote”! To succeed in this unusual hunt in Quebec, you must master some very specific techniques. For the occasion, our ambassador Mario Huot, an experienced hunter for over 30 years, shares his advice and anecdotes. Follow the leader!
A family passion
When we met Mario Huot, he was a few hours away from launching his hunting season with his two teenagers aged 15 and 17 and his wife Dominique. “It’s always a highly anticipated moment! Everyone finds something to enjoy there. My youngest daughter doesn’t hunt, but she loves being with us in nature,” says Mario with a smile. This family bond around hunting makes the experience even more memorable.
How to detect the presence of coyotes?
Coyote hunting is possible everywhere in Quebec, but certain sectors like Plessisville or Louiseville en Beauce stand out. There, the abundance of deer naturally attracts predators. How do you know if coyotes are around? Mario recommends observing the deer crossings, which are often also those of coyotes.
“One day, while driving, I spotted fresh tracks on the snow. As I looked more closely, I realized that a dominant male was nearby. A few calls later, he showed up, curious and territorial. A memorable encounter! », Mentions our ambassador Mario Huot.
If you hunt by calling, the coyote will respond to you, making the hunt very interactive with the animal.
Techniques to attract coyotes: calls or bait?
There are two main methods of attracting the animal: calls and baits.
With calls
Mario advises simulating cries of distress (like a hare) or provocation (cries of male coyotes). During the breeding season, in February, dominant males become more territorial, increasing your chances of success. Mario adds: “Sometimes I use two different calls to combine distress and provocation. This intrigues them more. »
With bait: tips and anecdotes
The choice of bait is crucial to attract the coyote within range. According to Mario Huot, anything carnivorous will do: “A leftover chicken, any piece of meat. Some farms even use dead animals, such as pigs. » However, he emphasizes one key point: avoid letting baits freeze, as this reduces their odor, making coyotes less interested.
Mario shares an anecdote that clearly illustrates this importance:
“I once carefully placed a piece of meat in a strategic location, but waited too long to renew it. Result? The coyotes didn't even come close. A good lesson learned! »
To maximize your chances, prefer small quantities renewed regularly rather than a large deposit. This maintains a lingering scent and ensures that the baits remain attractive to coyotes.
The wind, the enemy of the coyote hunter
Despite a choice of electronic or non-electronic calls, as well as particularly interesting baits for the animal, particular attention must also be paid to the choice of location. Whether you choose to cover the baiting site or move to track the animal, the wind can quickly become your worst enemy! “You need a strategic location against the wind. We don't notice it, but the coyote has a very good sense of smell. If he detects that there is a problem, he will not come at all. Ideally, we set up 100 meters from the baiting site, in the right direction of the wind or, when we call, we walk a lot and we must take the wind into account. »
Mario Huot has been hunting coyotes for over thirty years.
Using a camera: essential?
A camera or two could be useful at a baiting site to know where the animal is coming from and where it is leaving. We will also be able to find out more about his comings and goings. Moreover, at the beginning when the animal tames the area, it will come and eat for only ten minutes before leaving and returning hours later. When he feels safe, he will be able to come back more often and for longer. When it only comes at night, it is also a sign that too much odor has been left, that it has detected the human presence. This makes it easier to target when you go hunting and the ideal place to settle depending on the winds.
When you're more of a hunting type, the camera is no longer ideal, because you walk around a lot. We call the animal, then we remain motionless for 30 minutes while waiting to see the result. Faced with nothingness, either the animal is further away or it has seen you, and therefore, we move again before making another call and then waiting.
Choosing warm clothes
Yes, it is one of the simplest hunting activities, says the specialist. A little basic equipment and good warm clothes are enough. You can also indulge in it in the morning, noon or evening. “Over the years, I have had a little more success in the morning and late afternoon,” he testifies.I have also harvested a lot of coyotes at lunchtime. » If the moment or time of day has little impact on your harvest, the mistakes to avoid would be, according to Mr. Huot, to position yourself in the wrong direction of the wind or to position yourself too close to its bait. Prefer a good 100 to 300 meters. Finally, shooting practice is important. We hunt coyotes with weapons, but a caliber that is too large is not preferred.
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After the shot: what to do with the animal?
Is there a difference between coyote hunting and wolf hunting, you ask, and with good reason. The answer is no, there are not many differences in hunting. Where these two stand out is in the protection of deer herds. The presence of wolves is less harmful for them since they hunt for food while the coyote hunts for food but also for pure pleasure. So the victims are more numerous on one side than the other. Both of them, their flesh is inedible. “Normally, we do not eat predators since we do not necessarily have the antibodies to digest this meat. You might think that the bear is a predator, but it is 90% herbivorous so its meat is perfect for humans. », he summarizes. After killing, Mario Huot gives the animal to a trapper who will clean the skin and then sell the fur. A few decades ago, the prices obtained for skins were attractive but this is no longer the case today. No matter, the hunter says he is happy to experience this activity with his family at the start of the year, to help the deer herds and also to please a trapper. So, there’s something for everyone!
Coyote hunting: the elements of success
In conclusion, to get started with this new sport hunting activity and ensure success, you must keep your eyes peeled for signs of coyote presence, make calls every 30 minutes if that is the preferred method, then position yourself well in relation to the wind. Smells then positioning, this is the key to success? Now that you have all the information to get started on your adventure, you can start shopping for your Sportchief hunting set!
Did you know?
- Coyote hunting is legal all year round in Quebec. However, in autumn, the use of a bib is compulsory, which can make the approach more difficult. Mario Huot prefers to hunt the animal in the heart of winter, this period of latency that is a bit cruel for any hunter.
- An adult coyote can weigh up to 50 pounds, although it is classified as small game. Strangely, you need a big game hunting license to go turkey hunting!
- Unlike wolves, coyotes hunt not only for food, but also for pleasure, which can have a greater impact on deer herds.
- There is no census in Quebec of the number of coyotes killed each year to compile hunting activities.
Frequently asked questions about coyote hunting
1. Do I need a license to hunt coyotes?
Yes, a small game hunting license is required to hunt coyotes in Quebec.
2. When is the best time to hunt coyotes?
Although hunting is possible in autumn, Mario Huot prefers winter. This period offers better conditions for approaching the animal, because coyotes are more active due to the cold and the scarcity of resources.
3. What clothing should you choose for coyote hunting?
Warm, discreet clothing is essential. Avoid bright colors if possible and opt for camo outfits suitable for winter conditions.
4. Where to place a camera at a baiting site?
Place a camera at a strategic angle to monitor the coyote's movements. Observe if the animal comes regularly or only at night, which could indicate distrust of the area.
5. What weapon calibers are recommended?
A caliber suitable for small game hunting is ideal to avoid damage to the fur. Practice your shots to ensure accurate and ethical shooting.
6. Can you hunt coyotes without bait?
Yes, call hunting is a great alternative. It requires calls and a good knowledge of the sounds that attract coyotes.
In conclusion
Coyote hunting is a captivating experience, combining strategy and patience. With these tips and Mario Huot's inspiring anecdotes, you are ready to take on this unique challenge. Check out our collections to find the perfect clothing and equipment for your winter outings!
