Are electronic calls a good investment for raccoon hunting?

Choosing the Right Electronic Call

When selecting an electronic call for raccoon hunting, consider a unit with a wide range of sounds, including distress calls, barks, and screams. These sounds mimic the vocalizations of a raccoon in distress or a coonhound on the hunt, which can effectively trigger a raccoon’s treeing instinct. Look for a call with at least 10 different sounds and adjustable volume control.

Mastering the Art of Calling

To effectively use an electronic call, practice your calling techniques in a controlled environment before heading out into the field. Start by making short, gentle calls and gradually increase the volume and intensity as needed. Remember to pay attention to the coonhound’s reaction to the call, as this can indicate whether the call is effective or needs adjustment. Aim to make 10-20 calls per hour, with a 2-5 minute interval between each call. This allows the raccoon to respond naturally to the call without becoming desensitized.

Using the Coonhound’s Instinct

When hunting with a treeing Walker coonhound, utilize the coonhound’s natural treeing instinct to your advantage. As the coonhound begins to bay and tree a raccoon, use the electronic call to reinforce the coonhound’s efforts and keep the raccoon in the tree. This can be especially effective when hunting in areas with multiple trees or a large raccoon population. By combining the coonhound’s instinct with the electronic call, you can increase your chances of calling in a raccoon and ending the hunt with a successful tree.