Why Kansas Is a Prime State for Bobcat Action
Kansas may not be the first state that comes to mind for predators, but its wide-open terrain and healthy bobcat population make it a top destination for those who know how to call and set up properly. Bobcats often hunt deer, so paying attention to deer trails and areas where deer congregate can indicate the presence of bobcats. Using decoys with erratic movements can also be crucial for drawing out bobcats from cover, particularly in areas where stealth is necessary for a successful shot. With long winters, minimal human disturbance in rural areas, and a solid mix of cover and prey, the state provides a great chance for a successful hunt. When temperatures drop and snow hits the ground, calling in a bobcat becomes not just possible—but likely with the right approach.
Ideal Habitat and Travel Corridors
Bobcats in Kansas favor broken terrain where grasslands, brushy creek bottoms, brush piles, and timber edges come together. They work their way through fence lines, dry streambeds, and thick cover, always on the lookout for easy prey. Snowy fields bordered by cover can become hot zones for calling. Look for cat tracks in these areas to identify prime locations. Old logging trails, fencerows, and two-track roads offer natural travel corridors that are ideal places to set up a stand. A good setup takes advantage of wind direction, visibility, and proximity to known bobcat trails or sign.
Timing Your Hunt in Cold Conditions
Winter is the best time to hunt bobcats in Kansas. The cold weather makes them more responsive to calls, and fresh snow reveals tracks and travel patterns. Early mornings and late afternoons produce the best movement. Bobcats aren’t as wary as coyotes, but they are cautious and often approach slowly, especially in open country. Windy days tend to reduce calling success, so calm mornings after snowfall are ideal. Hunting at night can also be effective, as bobcats are more likely to emerge from their hiding spots after dark. Late December through February is prime time for action.
Using Calls to Draw Them In
Calling is the cornerstone of winter bobcat hunting in Kansas. Prey distress calls—especially those mimicking small mammals or birds, such as cottontail distress—can trigger a bobcat’s curiosity and hunger. Electronic calls offer convenience and variety, while hand calls provide flexibility and control. Varying calling sequences is crucial, as it can make your setup more convincing and effective. Start with lower volume and increase slowly. Bobcats often take their time responding, so patience is key. Don’t be surprised if one slips in silently twenty or thirty minutes after the first sequence. Keep your eyes moving and stay alert for subtle movement.
Smart Setup for Slow Movers
Because bobcats respond cautiously, setups and stands need to account for longer calling sessions and slow approaches. Find a spot with good visibility downwind and natural cover at your back. Setting up near the edge of cover is crucial, as bobcats often linger at the edge of dense brush or wooded areas before moving into the open. Sit in the shade if possible and keep your movements minimal. Position your call or decoy upwind and slightly off to the side, forcing the bobcat to circle into shooting range while keeping its attention away from you. Camouflage matters—blend into the background and avoid skylining yourself on a ridge or rise.
Choosing the Right Gear
A flat-shooting rifle chambered in .223 or similar caliber works well for bobcats in open terrain. Shotguns with tight chokes and lead or tungsten loads are effective in thick cover. Use shooting sticks or a bipod for steadier shots. Optics, including a thermal scope, should allow for scanning brushy edges and spotting movement at a distance. E callers are also essential for effective calling, as they can produce realistic animal distress sounds to draw in bobcats from their hiding spots. Dress for long sits in cold conditions—warm layers, insulated boots, and windproof outerwear will keep you focused when the temperature drops.
Hunting Solo or With a Partner
Solo hunting works well for bobcats, as minimizing scent and movement can make all the difference. If hunting with a buddy, split up your roles—one person can run the call while the other stays focused on watching for movement. Set up with enough distance to cover different approach paths and maintain quiet communication. Talk quietly to share knowledge and experiences, enhancing your hunting strategy. When done correctly, a two-person setup can increase your chances of spotting a cat before it spots you.
Regulations and Ethical Considerations
Kansas requires the purchase of a furharvester license to hunt bobcats, and tagging and reporting rules apply. Make sure to read up on legal methods and open seasons before heading out. It is also important to complete the necessary form for legal hunting. Respect land boundaries and always obtain permission before hunting private property. Mark your kill promptly and retrieve it responsibly. Ethical hunting helps maintain access and protects the long-term health of the bobcat population.
A Cold Weather Challenge with Big Rewards
Bobcat hunting in Kansas is a fun waiting game played in biting wind and wide-open spaces. But when a set comes together and a cat slips out of the brushline, the payoff is unforgettable. Success eventually comes with patience. It’s not about big numbers—it’s about doing it right. Reading the terrain, choosing your setup, calling with patience, and sealing the deal. For those willing to brave the cold and stick with it, Kansas offers one of the most rewarding predator hunts in the country.
FAQs
When is the best time to hunt bobcats in Kansas?
Late December through February is ideal for daytime hunting, especially after a fresh snow and during calm, cold mornings.
Night hunts can also be highly effective, offering a thrilling experience with unique challenges and excitement.
What kind of terrain should I focus on?
Look for brushy draws, fencerows, dry creek beds, trees, and areas where grassland meets timber or old farmland. Open fields are also crucial for nighttime hunting, as bobcats are more willing to venture into these areas under the cover of darkness, making it easier for hunters to set up and call them in.
What calls work best for bobcats?
High-pitched prey distress calls, bird sounds, and rabbit squeals work well, but don't rely on just one sound. Switching between different sounds every few minutes can help keep the cat's attention and coax it out of cover. Electronic callers can be particularly effective, as they allow for varied sound sequences to attract predators based on their responsiveness. Electronic or hand calls can be effective.
Do I need a special license?
Yes. A Kansas furharvester license is required to hunt bobcats, and many states have specific regulations and educational programs aimed at responsible trapping and wildlife management. Trappers play a crucial role in bobcat harvesting, often being called to areas by farmers to control nuisance populations, and they contribute significantly to managing furbearer populations. Tagging regulations must be followed.
How long should I sit at a setup?
Sit for at least thirty minutes to an hour and be prepared to wait as part of your strategy. During a setup, hunters should expect that bobcats may not respond immediately and that patience is crucial. Bobcats approach slowly and may not respond right away.
What’s the best gun setup?
A flat-shooting rifle in .223 or similar is ideal for open country, providing a precise shot. Hunters need to figure out the best setup for their specific conditions to ensure success. In thicker cover, a 12 gauge with tight choke and predator loads works well.