Introduction to Predator Hunting
Predator hunting is a vital aspect of wildlife management, allowing hunters to control populations of coyotes, mountain lions, and other predators that can impact deer and other species. In Texas, predator hunting is a popular activity, with many hunters preferring to hunt coyotes and other varmints year-round. The state’s public lands and private lands offer ample opportunities for hunters to engage in predator control, helping to maintain a balance between predator and prey populations.
To hunt predators in Texas, hunters must obtain the necessary hunting licenses, which can be purchased over the counter or online. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulates predator hunting, setting rules and bag limits to ensure sustainable hunting practices. Hunters can hunt coyotes and other predators at night, using spotlights and other equipment to locate and shoot their targets.
In South Texas, coyote hunting is particularly popular, with many ranchers and hunters working together to control coyote populations and protect deer herds. Predator hunting can be done in conjunction with deer hunting, allowing hunters to manage multiple species and maintain a healthy ecosystem. The use of firearms, such as rifles and shotguns, is common in predator hunting, and hunters must be skilled and knowledgeable in their use.
By participating in predator hunting, hunters can help maintain a balance in nature and ensure the long-term health of deer and other species. Whether on public lands or private ranches, the opportunities for predator control in Texas are abundant, making it a rewarding pursuit for those dedicated to wildlife management.
Texas as a Premier Predator State
Texas stands out as a year-round coyote hunting destination, offering a wide range of habitats, liberal regulations, and a high population of coyotes statewide. In addition to coyotes, hunters can also pursue feral hogs, which are abundant across the state and provide additional hunting opportunities. From the open plains of the Panhandle to the brushy draws of the Hill Country and the mesquite flats of South Texas, coyotes have adapted to thrive in nearly every corner of the state. With no closed season and limited restrictions, Texas allows hunters to pursue predator management whenever opportunity and time allow.
Daytime Strategies Across Regions
Daytime coyote hunting in Texas varies by region, with different strategies being employed depending on the terrain and the animals being hunted. In the Panhandle and West Texas, long-range visibility and open country allow for spotting and stalking or calling from ridgelines. In the thicker brush country to the south and east, tighter setups near water holes, senderos, or ranch roads work better. Early mornings and late afternoons are key, especially during cooler months. Distress calls like jackrabbit, cottontail, or bird in distress often draw fast responses, particularly in areas with consistent livestock or deer populations.
Night Hunting Advantages
Texas permits night hunting of coyotes with spotlights, thermal, and night vision, making after-dark hours highly productive. Coyotes prefer hunting at night, making nocturnal hours highly productive for hunters using the right technology. Coyotes are more vocal and active at night, and hunters using the right technology can pick up more movement and activity than during the day. Flat ranch land, hayfields, and pasture edges near cattle feeders are prime setups for night hunts. Stay downwind, use minimal movement, and scan with thermal optics for heat signatures before switching to rifle scopes.
Gear for Texas Coyote Hunting
For daytime hunts, camouflage suited to your specific region—mesquite brush, prairie grass, or piney woods—is a must. Shot placement is key, so a flat-shooting rifle with a bipod or tripod is common. Night hunters benefit from thermal scopes or high-quality scanning devices, and red or green lights if thermals aren’t available. Decoys and e-callers can add realism to your setup. Be prepared for dust, heat, and long sits—hydration and comfort go a long way, especially in the warmer months. Hunters should also be aware of regulations regarding the possession of certain hunting equipment and ensure they comply with all legal requirements.
Best Time to Hunt Coyotes in Texas
While hunting is legal year-round, late fall through early spring tends to be most productive. Cooler temperatures keep coyotes active during the day, increasing the chances of a successful kill. The winter breeding season (January through March) boosts responsiveness to howls and pup distress calls. Summer hunts are still effective but require early morning timing due to heat. Drought conditions can concentrate activity near water and ranch feeding operations.
Land Access and Opportunities
Most of Texas is private land, but many landowners welcome predator control efforts—especially on cattle ranches, deer leases, or farms experiencing fawn or livestock loss. Many landowners, especially those raising sheep, welcome predator control efforts to protect their livestock. Always secure permission and follow any property-specific guidelines. Public land is limited but available in certain wildlife management areas. Ranches offering day hunts or seasonal predator packages are also common.
Calling Tactics and Setup Tips
Vary your sounds based on local prey base and time of year. Coyotes often communicate with other coyotes through howls and yips, making calling tactics highly effective. Start with subtle distress calls and increase intensity as needed. Coyotes in Texas may respond quickly or approach cautiously, so remain patient and ready. Wind direction is critical—coyotes will almost always attempt to circle downwind. Set your caller upwind and slightly offset to your shooting position, and maintain a low profile with limited movement.
Conclusion
Texas offers some of the most flexible and consistent coyote hunting in the country. With open seasons, varied terrain, and ample opportunities on private ground, predator hunters can practice their craft in every season. From a quiet dawn stand on a brushy sendero to the glow of a thermal screen under a Texas moon, the hunt is always on in the Lone Star State. With no closed season, hunters can hunt year round, ensuring continuous opportunities for predator control.
FAQs
Can you hunt coyotes year-round in Texas?
Yes, there is no closed season for coyotes in Texas. However, hunters should be aware of any bag limit regulations that may apply to other species.
Is night hunting legal?
Yes, with permission from the landowner, you can use lights, thermal, and night vision to hunt coyotes at night. Coyotes prefer hunting at night, making nocturnal hours highly productive for hunters.
What are the best calls to use in Texas?
Distress calls such as jackrabbit, cottontail, bird sounds, and coyote howls all work well depending on region and season. Coyotes often communicate with other coyotes through howls and yips, making these calls particularly effective.
Do I need a license to hunt coyotes?
Yes, a valid Texas hunting license is required, but no special tags are needed.
In addition to a hunting license, hunters should be aware of regulations regarding the possession of certain hunting equipment.
Where can I hunt coyotes in Texas?
Most land is private, but some public WMAs offer predator hunting. Some of the best hunting opportunities can be found in remote areas where coyote populations are less pressured. Many ranches also offer access for a fee.
What firearm is best for Texas coyote hunting?
Flat-shooting rifles like .223 or .243 are popular choices for both day and night hunting. A flat-shooting rifle increases the chances of a clean kill, which is essential for ethical hunting.
How long should I stay at a setup?
Fifteen to thirty minutes is common, depending on terrain and coyote activity. The duration can vary depending on the terrain and the animals being hunted.
Is summer coyote hunting productive?
Yes, but it’s best done early in the morning or near water sources due to the heat. Texas allows hunters to hunt year round, providing continuous opportunities for predator control.
What’s the benefit of using decoys?
Decoys help focus coyote attention and can bring them into range when combined with calling. Decoys can mimic the presence of other coyotes, making them highly effective when combined with calling.
What’s the biggest challenge in Texas coyote hunting?
Gaining access to land and dealing with heat or wind conditions are the biggest factors that impact success. Accessing remote areas can also be challenging but often leads to more successful hunts.