Introduction to Hunting
Hunting is a popular outdoor activity in North Carolina, offering a diverse range of game species for hunters to pursue. From small game like rabbits and squirrels to larger game such as deer and feral swine, the state provides ample opportunities for both novice and seasoned hunters. To participate in hunting activities, individuals must obtain the necessary hunting licenses and permits, which are issued by the Wildlife Resources Commission. This regulatory body ensures that hunting practices are sustainable and responsible by setting hunting seasons, bag limits, and other rules.
For those interested in coyote hunting, North Carolina offers year-round opportunities on both public and private lands. In certain counties, including Beaufort, Dare, Hyde, Tyrrell, and Washington, hunters can obtain a coyote depredation permit to hunt coyotes on private lands. Night hunting is also permitted on private lands with written permission from the landowner, and hunters can use archery equipment or other approved methods. These regulations help manage coyote populations while providing hunters with a challenging and rewarding experience.
North Carolina’s Coyote Hunting Landscape
North Carolina’s diverse topography—ranging from coastal plains and rolling hills to Appalachian hardwoods—creates varied and productive coyote habitat. As coyote populations grow across the state, more hunters are turning to predator hunting for its challenge and its value in controlling nuisance wildlife. With a year-round open season and no bag limit, North Carolina offers consistent opportunities for hunters to hone their skills. State-owned game lands also provide opportunities for coyote hunting with the appropriate permits.
Public Land Availability
While much of North Carolina is privately owned, the state has an expansive public land system available to coyote hunters. Game Lands managed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission provide public access across different regions. However, obtaining a permit does not authorize access to any property without explicit permission from the landowner. Uwharrie National Forest, Pisgah National Forest, and Croatan National Forest all offer solid hunting opportunities. Many of these areas feature habitat transitions that attract coyotes, such as clearcuts, regenerating hardwoods, and field edges. Hunting coyotes on public lands without the required permits is prohibited.
Game Land Management
Game land management is essential for maintaining healthy and sustainable wildlife populations in North Carolina. The Wildlife Resources Commission oversees more than 2 million acres of public and private lands, collectively known as game lands. These areas provide critical habitat for a variety of game species and are open to public hunting, trapping, and inland fishing. The Commission’s management practices ensure the long-term conservation of wildlife resources by regulating hunting seasons, bag limits, and other rules to prevent overhunting.
For example, specific rules are in place for hunting deer on game lands, including restrictions on hunting methods and designated seasons. These regulations help maintain a balance between wildlife populations and their habitats, ensuring that hunting remains a sustainable activity. Additionally, game land management involves efforts to improve habitat quality, control invasive species, and monitor wildlife populations. These practices not only support hunting but also enhance the overall health of North Carolina’s ecosystems.
Top Game Lands and Forests
In the central region, the Sandhills Game Land and Alcoa Game Land offer good access and a mix of terrain. Western hunters will find opportunity in Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, especially in timber-cut areas and remote draws. The northeastern Albemarle region has large tracts of public marshland and woodlots where coyotes hunt waterfowl and small game. In the southeast, Croatan National Forest and Holly Shelter Game Land hold promise, especially near roads, firebreaks, and wetland edges. These areas are also home to other wildlife such as foxes, which have their own specific trapping regulations.
Hunters may also encounter foxes in these regions, and should be aware of the specific seasons and methods allowed for trapping them.
Regulations and Legal Considerations
Coyotes may be hunted day or night year-round in North Carolina. Night hunting is permitted with the use of artificial lights and night vision or thermal optics, except on some specific public lands that may restrict nighttime methods. The Wildlife Commission is working towards establishing permanent rules for night hunting of coyotes. Hunters must carry a valid North Carolina hunting license, and some public lands may require game land permits. Temporary rules have been enacted to allow night hunting of coyotes and feral swine on private lands. Always consult the most recent regulations for each tract, as restrictions may vary. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service collaborates with the state to manage hunting regulations. An NCWRC issued permit is required for hunting coyotes on state-owned game lands.
Best Times and Effective Strategies
Coyote activity increases in winter during breeding season and again in early spring as adults seek food to support new litters. Distress calls and territorial howls work well from December through March. During warmer months, early morning and twilight setups near water or agriculture can yield results. Game Lands with agricultural leases or adjacent private farmland are especially productive. Hunting is allowed from one half hour before sunrise until one half hour after sunset on private lands.
Coyotes may be taken on private lands anytime, while on public lands, hunting is allowed from one half hour before sunrise until one half hour after sunset without a permit, and from one half hour after sunset until one half hour before sunrise with a permit.
Gear and Setup Recommendations
North Carolina’s terrain varies from thick brush to open fields. In the mountains and Piedmont, a flat-shooting rifle is helpful for longer shots, while in denser coastal and central cover, shotguns loaded with heavy predator loads may be more effective. Electronic calls, decoys, and portable seats or blinds make for more efficient public land setups. Always practice scent control and watch the wind, as coyotes in heavily hunted areas are quick to detect danger. Hunters should be aware of the legal restrictions on weapons, including firearms and archery equipment, when hunting on game lands.
Feral Swine Control
Feral swine pose a significant challenge to North Carolina’s ecosystems, causing extensive damage to crops, native vegetation, and wildlife habitats. These invasive animals are prolific breeders and can quickly overrun an area if not properly managed. The Wildlife Resources Commission has implemented various measures to control the feral swine population, including regulated hunting and trapping.
Hunters play a crucial role in managing feral swine numbers. There are no closed seasons or bag limits for hunting feral swine on private lands, allowing hunters to pursue these animals year-round. On game lands, specific regulations may apply, so it’s important to consult the latest rules before heading out. By participating in feral swine control efforts, hunters help protect North Carolina’s natural resources and contribute to the overall health of the state’s ecosystems.
Conclusion
With ample public land access and year-round legal opportunity, coyote hunting in North Carolina is a rewarding pursuit for those who scout well and respect the terrain. From the ridges of the western forests to the swampy lowlands of the east, hunters willing to adapt and put in the miles will find consistent action and a worthwhile challenge on North Carolina’s public lands.
Temporary hunting rules for coyotes and feral swine will remain in effect for up to 270 days while permanent regulations are being considered.
FAQs
Can I hunt coyotes year-round in North Carolina?
Yes, coyote hunting is legal year-round with no bag limit.
Are there good public lands for coyote hunting?
Yes, Game Lands and National Forests like Uwharrie, Pisgah, Croatan, and Nantahala provide strong options. Additionally, state-owned game lands also provide opportunities for coyote hunting with the appropriate permits, such as a Coyote Hunting or Depredation Permit, along with the required licenses issued by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Is night hunting allowed on public land?
Night hunting is allowed in general but may be restricted on some Game Lands—always check local regulations.
Additionally, temporary rules have been enacted in North Carolina to allow night hunting of coyotes and feral swine on private lands.
What calls are effective?
Rabbit distress, fawn distress, and coyote vocalizations like howls and pup yelps work well in different seasons.
Hunters are encouraged to submit hair samples from harvested coyotes for genetic analysis.
Do I need a special permit to hunt on Game Lands?
Some Game Lands require a Game Land Permit in addition to a regular hunting license.
Additionally, a specific permit hunt opportunity may be required for hunting coyotes on state-owned game lands.
What firearm works best in North Carolina?
Use a flat-shooting rifle in open terrain and a shotgun with predator loads in thicker areas.
Hunters should be aware of the legal restrictions on weapons, including firearms and archery equipment, when hunting on game lands.
When is the best time of year to hunt coyotes?
Late winter and early spring are the most productive due to increased activity and response to calling.
Hunting is allowed from one half hour before sunrise until one half hour after sunset on private lands.
Can I use electronic calls on public land?
Yes, electronic calls are legal in North Carolina, including on most public lands.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service collaborates with the state to manage hunting regulations, ensuring responsible wildlife management and conservation efforts.
What kind of terrain should I focus on?
Look for clearcuts, firebreaks, field edges, and creek bottoms where coyotes hunt and travel.
Hunters must obtain permission from landowners before accessing private property.
Is baiting allowed on public land?
No, baiting is not permitted on Game Lands or National Forests in North Carolina.
Additionally, baiting is prohibited on these lands to ensure compliance with local wildlife management laws and maintain safety.