Quick Answer
In California, coyotes can be hunted using firearms, archery equipment, and traps, but hunting hours and methods vary depending on the season and location. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's regulations for specific requirements. Permits and licenses are also necessary for coyote hunting.
Hunting Methods and Regulations
Hunters in California can pursue coyotes year-round, but specific regulations apply to different seasons and locations. For example, during the general coyote season, which runs from September 1 to March 31, hunters can use firearms, archery equipment, and traps. However, in certain areas, such as the Central Valley and the Sierra Nevada foothills, hunting is restricted to archery equipment and firearms only.
Season and Bag Limits
The bag limit for coyotes in California is no bag limit, but hunters are encouraged to use humane and efficient methods to minimize suffering. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife also sets specific bag limits for coyote pups and female coyotes during certain times of the year. For example, from July 1 to August 31, the bag limit for coyote pups is five, and for female coyotes, it is one.
Gear and Equipment
Coyote hunters in California should be familiar with the necessary gear and equipment, including firearms, archery equipment, and traps. For firearms, hunters should use rifles or shotguns with suitable ammunition, such as .223 Remington or 12-gauge shotgun shells. Archers should use broadheads with a minimum of 1.5 inches of expansion and a minimum of 60 grains of weight. For trapping, hunters should use cage traps or body-gripping traps, and follow specific regulations for trap placement and handling.
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