How Many Hounds Should I Bring for a Raccoon Hunt?

Choosing the Right Hounds

When selecting hounds for a raccoon hunt, look for a combination of experienced dogs that have been specifically trained for raccoon hunting and younger dogs that can learn from the experienced ones. A mix of 2-3 experienced dogs, known as “line hounds,” and 2-3 younger dogs, called “bitch hounds,” is a good ratio. This setup allows for the experienced dogs to provide guidance and the younger dogs to learn from them.

Raccoon Hunting Techniques

Raccoon hunting with hounds typically involves a “treeing” style of hunt, where the dogs chase the raccoon and drive it up a tree. To be successful, you’ll need to make sure your hounds are well-trained and can work together effectively. Practice treeing your hounds with smaller game, such as rabbits or opossums, before moving on to raccoons. This will help your hounds develop the necessary skills and teamwork to successfully tree a raccoon.

Managing Your Hounds During the Hunt

During the hunt, it’s essential to keep your hounds in a tight group and avoid letting them spread out too far. A good rule of thumb is to keep them within 50-75 yards of each other at all times. This will help prevent the raccoon from escaping and ensure that your hounds can work together to tree it. Additionally, make sure to keep an eye on the weather and adjust your hunting strategy accordingly. Rainy or muddy conditions can make it difficult for your hounds to track the raccoon, so it’s best to avoid hunting in these conditions if possible.