Colorado Coyote Hunting

Guide to Hunting Coyotes in Colorado

As a passionate firearms professional and avid hunter, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of pursuing coyotes in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado. With its vast open spaces, diverse terrain, and thriving coyote population, this state offers an unparalleled hunting experience. This guide will share perspectives and insights on Colorado coyote hunting. From scouting techniques to essential gear and effective hunting strategies, we will delve into coyote hunting in the beautiful Centennial State.

Understanding the Coyote: Colorado’s Adaptive Predator

Before we venture into the thrilling realm of Colorado coyote hunting, we must familiarize ourselves with the species. Coyotes, also known as the “song dogs,” are highly adaptable predators that have successfully established themselves across various habitats. Here are some key characteristics of coyotes:

• Size: Coyotes are typically 32-37 inches long and weigh between 20-50 pounds.
• Fur Coloration: They possess a combination of gray, brown, and reddish fur, enabling effective camouflage.
• Vocalization: Known for their distinctive howls and yips, coyotes use vocalization for communication and territory marking.
• Nocturnal and Crepuscular: Coyotes are most active during the early morning and late evening hours, making these optimal hunting times.
• Opportunistic Feeders: Their diet includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, and vegetation.

Regulations and Licensing: Colorado’s Coyote Hunting Rules

Before venturing into the field, it’s crucial to understand the regulations and licensing requirements for coyote hunting in Colorado. Complying with these guidelines ensures ethical hunting practices and promotes wildlife conservation. Although the regulations change and you should do some final checking before you go, as of 6/2023, here are the key points to consider:

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

As of the time of this blog, here is what you’ll need to hunt coyotes in Colorado;

• Hunters Education Class Completion: This is a one-time for-life class you must attend before you can hunt in Colorado.
• Furbearer Harvest Permit: $10 (This is not necessary for coyotes but any other Furbearers you plan to hunt that year/season).
• Small Game lic: Resident $31
• Habitat Stamp: $11.50
• Harvest Information Program (HIP) #– Free; you can register for your HIP # at the website. It only takes a few minutes, but you’ll need your CID# from your hunting license.

NEW for 2023: FURBEARER HUNTERS, beginning April 1, 2023, if you hunt furbearers only (excluding coyotes) and DO NOT hunt waterfowl or small game in Colorado, you no longer need to register with HIP. Hunters for all other small game species and coyotes must register with HIP before hunting small games during the 2023-24 season.

You can obtain the Small game lic., Furbearer Harvest Permit, and Habitat Stamp on the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. So, if you have already completed Hunter Education Class, you can hunt coyotes throughout the year for $52.50, or $42.50 if you plan to hunt no other Furbear game.

Hunting Season and Limits

At the time of this blog, you can hunt Coy​ote​ ​year-round and statewide. While coyotes are considered furbearers, you do NOT need a furbearer harvest permit. You may hunt coyotes with a furbearer license, a small game license, or an unfilled big game license for the same season and unit.

• Year-round Season: Coyote hunting in Colorado is allowed throughout the year, offering ample opportunities for avid hunters.
• Bag Limits: There are no bag limits or possession limits for coyotes, as they are classified as non-protected and non-game animals.

Equipment and Costs

Regarding Colorado coyote hunting, having the right equipment in your backpack helps ensure a successful and rewarding hunt. Each piece of equipment increases your chances of a successful hunt, from firearms, binoculars, and optics to camouflage clothing and calls. So, let’s dive into the world of coyote hunting gear and gear up for an unforgettable adventure in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado.

Field Essentials

When heading out for coyote hunting in Colorado, there are several field essentials that you should consider to ensure a successful and safe experience. First and foremost, proper camouflage attire is crucial for blending into the natural surroundings and remaining undetected by the keen eyesight of coyotes.

Lastly, proper safety equipment, such as a first aid kit, a GPS device or compass, and sufficient food and water supplies. By ensuring you have these field essentials, you can embark on a memorable and responsible coyote hunting expedition in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado.

Firearms

When it comes to coyote hunting, selecting the right rifle is important. You want accuracy, range, and overall performance in the field. The ideal coyote rifle should balance maneuverability, caliber selection, and accuracy. Here are five examples of excellent rifles suited for coyote hunting:

• Winchester XPR Varmint
  • Chambered in calibers like .223 Remington and .22-250 Remington.
  • Features a heavy barrel for improved accuracy and reduced recoil.
  • Equipped with a synthetic stock, a detachable box magazine, and a reliable M.O.A. trigger system.
• Ruger American Predator
  • Available in popular calibers such as .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
  • Boasts a lightweight synthetic stock, a smooth bolt action, and an adjustable trigger.
  • Renowned for its affordability, reliability, and accuracy.
• Savage Model 12 Varmint
  • Offered in calibers like .223 Remington and .22-250 Remington.
  • Designed specifically for varmint hunting, providing excellent accuracy and a heavy barrel for increased stability.
  • Features an adjustable AccuTrigger and durable synthetic stock.
• Remington Model 700
  • Chambered in popular calibers like .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington.
  • Renowned for its exceptional accuracy, smooth bolt action, and customizable features.
  • Lightweight and versatile, making it suitable for various hunting scenarios.
• AR-15
  • The AR-15 is Chambered in popular calibers like .223
  • Great accuracy, very maneuverable, and low recoil
  • Lightweight and versatile, making it suitable for various hunting scenarios.

Optics

Regarding coyote hunting, having the right optics on your rifle can significantly improve your target acquisition and shot placement. The ideal rifle optics for coyote hunting should offer clarity, a wide field of view, and durable construction to withstand various hunting conditions. Here are a few examples of excellent optics specifically designed for coyote hunting:

• Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14×42
  • Provides a magnification range of 4.5-14x and a 42mm objective lens.
  • Offers a wide field of view, high-quality glass, and rugged one-piece tube construction.
  • Equipped with a Ballistic Plex E1 reticle for quick holdover estimation and wind drift compensation.
• Bushnell Trophy Xtreme X30 6-24×50
  • Offers a higher magnification range of 6-24x and a larger 50mm objective lens for long-range coyote hunting.
  • Provides a clear sight picture, adjustable parallax, and a fast-focus eyepiece.
  • Features an illuminated DOA LR600 reticle for precise aiming at extended distances.
• Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
  • Boasts a classic magnification range of 3-9x and a 40mm objective lens.
  • Provides exceptional optical clarity, a twilight management system, and scratch-resistant lenses.
  • Features a duplex reticle for precise aiming and a durable, waterproof construction.
• Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×40
  • Features a versatile magnification range of 4-12x and a 40mm objective lens for excellent light transmission.
  • Offers a clear sight picture, forgiving eye relief, and a fast-focus eyepiece.
  • Equipped with a dead-hold BDC reticle for quick holdover estimation.

Calls and Decoys

Effective calls and decoys can be game-changers, enticing these elusive predators within shooting range. The ideal calls and decoys should mimic distressed prey or create a realistic scenario to pique a coyote’s curiosity. Here are three examples of excellent calls and decoys for successful coyote hunting:

Coyote Calls

• FOXPRO Shockwave Electronic Predator Call
  • Offers a wide range of preloaded sounds, including distress calls, howls, barks, and pup distress calls.
  • Features a long-range remote control, allowing you to operate the call from a distance.
  • Equipped with dual amplified speakers for clear and realistic sound projection.
• Primos Alpha Dogg Electronic Predator Call
  • Provides a variety of realistic sounds, including distress calls, howls, and prey sounds.
  • Features a rotating directional speaker system for a lifelike sound experience.
  • It offers a remote control with a range of up to 200 yards, allowing for flexible operation.
• Johnny Stewart Predator Call Combo
  • It contains multiple mouth calls that produce many distress sounds and coyote vocalizations.
  • Includes different call styles, such as open reed and diaphragm calls, allowing versatility in your calling approach.
  • Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use in the field.

Decoys

• MOJO Outdoors Super Critter Decoy:
  • It simulates realistic prey movement with a spinning motion and a furry decoy to attract coyotes.
  • Operates using a remote control, providing customizable movement and speed options.
  • Lightweight and portable, making it convenient to set up and transport.
• Primos Sit’N Spin Crazy Critter Decoy:
  • Mimics an injured or distressed small mammal with erratic spinning and shaking movements.
  • Designed to attract coyotes with its lifelike motion and appearance.
  • Easy to set up, with a built-in stake for stability.
• Foxpro Jack Jr. Decoy:
  • Features a realistic action tail that moves lifelike to simulate distressed prey.
  • Operates using a remote control, allowing for customizable motion and speed settings.
  • Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in the field.

Colorado is Call and Decoy Friendly for Coyote Hunting

At this blog post’s time, decoys and calls, including electronic calls, were legal in Colorado to hunt coyotes. These examples represent a range of options for coyote calls and decoys, each offering unique features and benefits. When selecting calls and decoys, consider the specific sounds and movements that are effective in your hunting area and the ease of use and portability.

Experimenting with different calls and decoy setups can help determine what works best in your hunting scenarios.

Remember to practice proper calling techniques and strategically position your decoys to create an enticing setup. Combining effective calls and decoys increases your chances of luring in wily coyotes and setting up successful shots during your thrilling hunting expedition in Colorado.

Travel and Accommodation

• If you’re a non-resident or traveling to a specific area of Colorado for coyote hunting, you’ll need to consider transportation, lodging, and meal expenses. These costs will vary depending on your preferences and the duration of your hunting trip.

It’s important to note that the above costs are estimates and can vary based on individual choices, locations, and services. Additionally, stay updated on any changes in license fees or hunting regulations by consulting the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website or contacting their offices directly.

Scouting and Preparation: Secrets of Successful Coyote Hunts

Successful coyote hunting in Colorado begins with thorough scouting and diligent preparation. Understanding coyote behavior, identifying prime hunting locations, and using effective calling techniques are the foundations of a fruitful hunting expedition. Here are some tips to consider:

Scouting Techniques

We’ll be rolling out blogs with specific scouting techniques, actual hunts, and other Colorado coyote hunting topics but due to the length of this blog; we provided an overview below.

• Research: Utilize maps, online resources, and local wildlife management agencies to identify coyote hotspots and habitats.
• Tracks and Scat: Look for coyote tracks and scat along trails, game paths, or near water sources to determine their activity and movement patterns.
• Prime Hunting Locations: Focus on open fields, grasslands, agricultural areas, and brushy edges, preferred coyote habitats.
• Water Sources: Coyotes are often drawn to water sources such as rivers, ponds, and reservoirs, particularly during dry periods.
• Prey Abundance: Target areas with abundant small mammals, rabbits, or ground-dwelling birds, as coyotes rely on them for sustenance.

Prime Coyote Hunting Locations

Prime coyote hunting locations can vary depending on various factors such as geographic region, habitat, and local coyote populations. We will add actual hunts and locations to the blog, but here are a few general locations often considered prime for coyote hunting.

• Agricultural Areas: Coyotes are attracted to agricultural areas due to the presence of small mammals, such as mice and rabbits, as well as livestock that may provide an easy food source. Farm fields, pastures, and areas near livestock operations can be productive locations for coyote hunting.
• Open Grasslands: Wide-open grasslands and prairies offer excellent visibility for hunters, making it easier to spot coyotes from a distance. These areas often have an abundance of small prey species that coyotes feed on, making them appealing hunting grounds.
• Forest Edges and Clearings: In regions with forested areas, hunting along the edges of the woods or in clearings can be effective. Coyotes may use these areas as travel corridors between habitats or as hunting grounds.
• River Valleys and Creek Bottoms: Riparian areas, such as river valleys and creek bottoms, can provide cover and a water source for coyotes. These areas are often home to rodents and other small animals that coyotes prey upon. Hunting near these waterways can be fruitful, particularly during dawn and dusk when coyotes are more active.
• Urban and Suburban Fringes: Coyotes have adapted to human presence in some areas and can be found in urban and suburban environments. These adaptable predators may use available food sources such as garbage bins or small pets. However, hunting in urban or suburban areas requires careful consideration of local regulations and safety concerns.

Remember, before hunting coyotes, obtaining the necessary licenses and stamps and complying with Colorado hunting regulations is essential. Always prioritize safety, practice ethical hunting practices, and be aware of your surroundings while engaging in coyote hunting.

Colorado Coyote Hunting Tactics and Strategies

Colorado’s coyotes are renowned for their intelligence and wariness, so they must employ effective hunting tactics and strategies to outsmart them. Here are some proven approaches to increase your chances of a successful hunt:

Set Up and Concealment

• Use natural covers, such as brush or vegetation, to create a concealed hunting position allowing a clear field of view.
• Avoid excessive movement and camouflage yourself effectively to blend into the surroundings.

Decoying

• Implement predator decoys, such as motion or realistic coyote decoys, to attract curious coyotes within shooting range.
• Place the decoy in a visible and strategic location, simulating an enticing scenario for approaching coyotes.

Calling Techniques

• Start with soft, subtle calls to mimic a non-threatening or curious prey animal and gradually increase the intensity and urgency of distress calls to elicit a response.
• Vary the types of calls used, including distress calls, howls, barks, or pup distress calls, to create a realistic soundscape.

Concealment and Wind Considerations

• Pay attention to the wind direction to avoid being detected by coyotes’ keen sense of smell.
• Position yourself downwind of the expected approach route, using natural features to mask your scent.

Respecting Wildlife and the Environment

As responsible hunters, it is essential to uphold ethical hunting practices and promote conservation efforts while pursuing coyotes in Colorado’s wilderness. Here are some key principles to keep in mind:

• Avoid shooting unless you are certain it is the game you are hunting.
• Practice marksmanship and aim for ethical shot placements to ensure quick, clean kills.
• Avoid taking low-percentage shots that could result in wounding or prolonged animal suffering.
• Observe Leave No Trace principles by minimizing environmental impact and cleaning up after yourself.
• Obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property and respect their rules and boundaries.

Conclusion: Unleash Your Colorado Coyote Hunting Adventure

Coyote hunting is a thrilling pursuit that tests the skills and knowledge of any hunter. You can unlock unforgettable moments in the wilderness by understanding coyote behavior, scouting effectively, using proper gear and calling techniques, and practicing ethical hunting.

Remember to adhere to Colorado’s hunting regulations, obtain the necessary licenses, and always prioritize safety. Embrace the challenge of outwitting these cunning predators while respecting wildlife and the environment. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of the chase, the call of the wild, or the opportunity to contribute to wildlife management, Colorado coyote hunting offers a rewarding experience..

So, equip yourself with the right gear, master the art of calling, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Colorado as you embark on your coyote hunting adventure. May your hunts be filled with excitement, camaraderie, and memories that will last a lifetime. Happy hunting!

FAQs About Colorado Coyote Hunting