Quick Answer
When calling coyotes, the best shooting positions often involve elevated angles to compensate for the animal's movement and to quickly place a shot. A 4-6 foot high shooting blind or a raised platform behind dense cover can be effective. Positioning yourself at a 45-degree angle to the animal's movement also helps to ensure a clean shot.
Setting Up the Shot
When calling coyotes, it’s essential to position yourself for a clear and effective shot. A 4-6 foot high shooting blind made from natural cover like rocks or logs can be a great option. Alternatively, a raised platform made from a hunting blind or a tree stand can also work well. When setting up your blind or platform, aim to position yourself at a 45-degree angle to the animal’s likely approach path. This angle allows you to quickly place a shot as the coyote moves in.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Understanding coyote behavior is crucial when setting up a shot. Coyotes often approach calling sites cautiously, pausing frequently to assess their surroundings and detect potential threats. When they do move in, they typically come in at a 30-40 yard distance, making it essential to have a clear shot. By positioning yourself at a 45-degree angle, you can quickly place a shot as the coyote moves in, often within 10-15 yards.
Choosing the Right Caliber
When calling coyotes, a flat-shooting varmint cartridge from .223 to .308 is often the best choice. These calibers offer a flat trajectory, making them ideal for long-range shots. The .223 Remington is a popular choice for coyote hunting, as it offers a flat trajectory and a high velocity. However, the .308 Winchester is also a great option, offering a slightly flatter trajectory and more kinetic energy at longer ranges. Regardless of the caliber you choose, make sure to use a high-quality scope and a well-placed shot to ensure a clean and humane kill.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.