Rugged Territory and Northern Hunts
What Makes the Upper Peninsula Ideal
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers an expansive, wild setting for coyote hunting with large tracts of forest, swamps, and rugged hills. Low human density and a strong population of prey animals like deer and snowshoe hares make it a hotspot for coyotes. The presence of other predators like foxes adds to the region's dynamic ecosystem. Additionally, small mammals like mice, rabbits, and woodchucks constitute a significant part of the coyote's diet, making areas with high populations of these animals ideal for hunting. The region’s mix of logging country and public land provides a variety of setups for hunters looking to combine stealth, tracking, and calling in one of the Midwest’s most remote areas.
Coyote Behavior in the Northwoods
Coyotes in the Upper Peninsula move often during winter, traveling through cedar swamps, forest edges, and hardwood ridges in search of food. They are opportunistic and frequently trail deer or work bait piles left by hunters. Their movement increases during the breeding season and after snowstorms. Tracks and howls are good indicators of presence, and coyotes often respond to calls, making it crucial for hunters to be patient. The snow-covered landscape provides a visual advantage when scouting or calling. However, coyotes can easily be spooked, requiring hunters to employ careful strategies to avoid startling them.
Licensing and Regulations
What You Need to Hunt
A base hunting license is required to hunt coyotes in Michigan, with no closed season or bag limit. Night hunting is allowed with lights, and the use of thermal or night vision is legal. Hunters must obtain the appropriate license and adhere to all legal requirements for their specific age group and hunting scenario. During firearm deer season, hunters must follow orange clothing requirements and weapon restrictions. Always consult the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for updates on laws, especially for land-specific regulations. Additionally, attending a hunter education school can provide valuable knowledge and skills, enhancing the overall hunting experience.
Weapon Options and Legal Notes
Centerfire rifles are commonly used in open areas, while shotguns are preferred for tighter cover. When selecting a rifle for coyote hunting, consider the effectiveness and legal regulations associated with different calibers. Suppressors are legal in Michigan, making them useful for reducing sound in areas where repeated calling is planned. Basically, the legal firearm specifications indicate the calibers permissible for hunting, which is crucial for nighttime hunting. Night hunters often use electronic calls combined with red or green light setups or thermal optics. Make sure your setup complies with land use rules, particularly on state and federal lands.
Where to Hunt in the Upper Peninsula
Productive Public Lands
The Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests offer large blocks of public land with prime coyote habitat. Selecting the right location is crucial, considering factors like wind direction and visibility to effectively spot and target coyotes. Explore the expansive wilderness in the Upper Peninsula to discover diverse wildlife and prime hunting areas. State forest lands and managed wildlife areas like the Escanaba River State Forest also provide good access. Focus on transition zones where timber meets lowland or where logging activity has opened the canopy to promote small game. Snowshoeing or snowmobiling may be necessary to reach remote spots in deeper snow.
Private Land and Access
Much of the Upper Peninsula remains undeveloped, and private lands with active deer baiting or agricultural edges can hold consistent coyote activity. Gaining permission can open up less pressured areas. Individual hunting experiences can vary greatly depending on the person and the specific location. Always ask before entering, and be aware of boundary lines and local township rules that may affect night hunting or firearm use.
Tactics and Seasonal Tips
Winter Calling Approaches
Distress calls like rabbit and fawn bleats work well throughout the season, especially in areas where small game is present. Using a mouth call can also be highly effective in creating realistic distress sounds that attract coyotes. Various sounds, including electronic callers and the baying of hounds, play a crucial role in predator hunting by drawing in animals like coyotes and bobcats. Breeding howls and challenge barks become more effective from January into February. Coyotes often circle downwind before committing, so hunters should set up with terrain and wind in mind. Tracks in fresh snow can help determine travel routes and set ambush points.
Night Hunting Considerations
The long nights of winter make the Upper Peninsula ideal for night hunts. Coyotes are active and vocal after dusk, and snow helps illuminate open terrain under moonlight. Nighttime hunting requires understanding legal regulations for firearms and using appropriate methods, such as night vision optics. Hunters need to be creative in their strategies to comply with restrictions while aiming for success. Scanning wide areas with thermal or night vision can yield success when paired with consistent calling sequences. Staying mobile between stands helps cover ground and locate responsive coyotes.
Gear for Northern Success
Dressing for the Elements
Heavy, insulated clothing with windproof and waterproof outer layers is essential for hunting in subzero temperatures. Snow camo outerwear helps blend into the landscape. When standing, selecting a location that breaks up your outline is crucial for effective camouflage. Looking forward, ensure your gear is ready for any outdoor experience. Insulated boots, gloves, and seat cushions make long sits more bearable. Carrying extra batteries and warming packs helps keep electronics and fingers functional in the cold.
Essential Tools and Optics
Shooting sticks or bipods are important for making accurate shots in snowy or uneven terrain. Considering the range at which you need to lure predators is crucial, especially when using calls or electronic callers. Additionally, having a cheat sheet on your phone or computer can provide quick access to essential information while hunting. Binoculars, rangefinders, and GPS units help navigate public land and identify potential stand locations. A sled or pack frame is useful if you’re hauling gear or retrieving game from deep snow.
Conclusion
Coyote hunting in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula combines natural beauty with the thrill of pursuing one of North America’s smartest predators. With vast access to public land, winter tracking opportunities, and vocal coyotes responding to calls, the U.P. delivers both solitude and success for hunters ready to brave the cold. Smart setups, patient calling, and a deep understanding of the terrain can turn a quiet winter day into a memorable hunt.
FAQs
Do I need a license to hunt coyotes in Michigan?
Yes, a base hunting license is required. All hunters over the age of 16 must obtain a valid hunting license to hunt legally in Michigan. Additionally, individuals born on or after January 1, 1960 must complete an approved hunter education course to be eligible for licensing. There’s no closed season or bag limit for coyotes.
Can I hunt coyotes at night?
Yes, night hunting is legal with lights, and thermal or night vision devices are allowed. Nighttime hunting requires hunters to be aware of specific regulations, especially regarding the types of firearms that can be used. Hunters often need to be creative in their approach to comply with these legal limitations while still aiming for success.
What calls work best in the U.P.?
Distress calls, howls, challenge barks, and pup yelps are all effective, especially during winter. Mouth calls are also a traditional method for attracting coyotes, creating realistic distress sounds. Various sounds, such as calls and the baying of hounds, are crucial in predator hunting to draw in animals like coyotes and bobcats.
What gear should I bring?
Warm layers, snow camo, shooting sticks, optics, electronic calls, and snow navigation tools. It's crucial to have the right equipment to ensure a clean kill, including appropriate firearms and ammunition. Additionally, being prepared for a quick shot is essential, so having a clear view and accurate aim can make all the difference.
Where are good public lands to hunt?
Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests, state forests, and other large tracts of public land offer good access. Choosing the right spot with abundant food sources and adequate concealment can significantly impact your success rates. Fields in these areas, especially after fresh snowfall, provide excellent hunting grounds for tracking and hunting predators like coyotes.
When is the best time to hunt?
Winter months, especially early morning, late afternoon, and at night during breeding season. Hunters often face challenges when trying to tackle a coyote approaching a call in an unexpected manner. Additionally, mimicking the sounds of a rodent in trouble can effectively lure predators, enhancing the hunting experience.
Are suppressors legal?
Yes, suppressors are legal for hunting in Michigan with proper federal authorization. Basically, the legal firearm specifications indicate the calibers permissible for hunting, clarifying the limitations of firearm types during nighttime hunting. Additionally, using a rifle for hunting coyotes is effective and subject to legal regulations, including the use of lightweight varmint bullets and centerfire rifles during different times of the year.
What firearms are allowed?
Centerfire rifles and shotguns are legal, though check regulations for season-specific and land-specific rules. Basically, the legal firearm specifications indicate which calibers are permissible for hunting. A rifle is often preferred for its effectiveness in hunting coyotes, but be sure to follow the legal regulations associated with different calibers.
How do I find coyotes in deep snow?
Look for fresh tracks, trails, scat, and areas where prey activity is high. Coyotes often respond to calls, so patience is key when waiting for them to react. Be cautious, as coyotes can easily be spooked, making them more difficult to capture.
Is coyote hunting better after deer season?
Yes, with less human pressure and more snow cover, coyotes become easier to pattern and call. Consulting a hunting guide can provide essential information on legal requirements and effective techniques for coyote hunting. Additionally, YouTube is a valuable resource where hunters can learn and improve their skills by listening to skilled hunters using distress calls for coyotes.