Big Country, Year-Round Opportunity
Utah’s wide-open deserts, rugged canyons, and expansive high country provide ideal habitat for coyotes. These adaptable predators are common throughout the state, from the red rock terrain of the south to the sagebrush basins of the north. For hunters, coyotes offer a challenging year-round pursuit with few restrictions and a meaningful role in predator management. Whether you're calling on public land or helping a rancher protect livestock, Utah is a stronghold for serious coyote hunting.
Legal Framework and Requirements
Coyotes are classified as non-protected wildlife in Utah, which means there is no closed season and no bag limit. They may be hunted year-round without a hunting license for Utah residents. Non-residents must hold a valid hunting license to legally pursue coyotes. There is no bounty program offered by the state, but some counties or private organizations may have incentive programs. Night hunting is legal on private land with permission and without additional permitting, but artificial lights or night vision devices may have local restrictions. On public lands, night hunting is prohibited without a special permit.
Where to Hunt Coyotes in Utah
Coyotes are found throughout Utah, with notable populations in the west desert, Wasatch Front foothills, Cache Valley, San Rafael Swell, and canyon country near Moab and Green River. Public lands make up the majority of Utah’s open space, including large sections of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) ground and national forest land. These areas provide ample opportunity for scouting, calling, and spot-and-stalk setups. Scouting for tracks, scat, and vocal activity can lead you to high-traffic zones.
Strategy and Calling Techniques
Coyotes in Utah often inhabit open terrain, so visibility and wind control are key. Set up with elevation or near a terrain break, and use natural cover to stay concealed. Electronic callers are legal and effective, offering a mix of prey distress, coyote vocalizations, and pup distress. In winter and early spring, pair howls with pup yelps or breeding-related vocalizations to trigger territorial or curiosity-driven responses. Adjust your calling cadence depending on pressure—less aggressive sequences often work better in high-traffic areas.
Best Time to Hunt
Coyotes can be hunted anytime, but success peaks during winter and early spring. From December to March, coyotes are more active during daylight and more responsive to vocalizations. Snow helps track movement and increases shot visibility. The breeding season (late January through February) is particularly productive for calling. Early morning and late afternoon remain the best times for catching coyotes on the move or coming to a call.
Firearms and Gear
Flat-shooting rifles like .223, .22-250, and .243 are favorites for long-range shooting in open terrain. In close cover or rimrock country, shotguns with buckshot are effective for fast-approaching targets. Use camo suited to the terrain—sage, rock, and snow camo as needed—and layer clothing for changing conditions. Shooting sticks or bipods improve shot stability, and a good optic helps identify movement at a distance. Binoculars and rangefinders are helpful for glassing wide-open landscapes.
Public vs. Private Land
Utah’s extensive public lands offer freedom to roam and hunt, but private landowners are often supportive of predator control. Always obtain verbal or written permission before hunting private land. In agricultural areas, especially those with livestock, landowners may welcome help reducing coyote pressure. Be mindful of boundary lines and consult maps or GPS tools to ensure you’re within legal access zones.
Safety and Ethics
Always be sure of your backdrop, especially in areas with variable terrain or near property lines. Respect seasonal closures on roads or wildlife management units. When hunting near livestock or populated areas, inform landowners and use discretion with call placement and shot direction. Ethical coyote hunting includes clean shots, efficient tracking, and helping maintain balance in the predator-prey cycle.
Conclusion
Coyote hunting in Utah offers vast landscapes, liberal regulations, and a meaningful role in wildlife management. From mountain passes to desert flats, each region presents its own challenge and reward. Hunters who scout carefully, call smart, and stay within legal boundaries will find Utah to be one of the West’s premier destinations for predator action. With every outing, you contribute to managing the land and keeping hunting traditions strong in the Beehive State.
FAQs
Is there a season or bag limit for coyotes in Utah?
No, coyotes may be hunted year-round with no bag limit.
Do I need a license to hunt coyotes in Utah?
Utah residents do not need a license. Non-residents must have a valid hunting license.
Can I hunt coyotes at night in Utah?
Yes, on private land. Night hunting on public land requires a special permit.
Are electronic calls legal?
Yes, electronic calls are legal and commonly used for coyote hunting.
What is the best time to hunt coyotes?
Winter and early spring, especially during breeding season in January and February.
What kind of firearm is best?
Rifles in .223 or .22-250 for open terrain; shotguns for close cover setups.
Are there public lands open to coyote hunting?
Yes, Utah has extensive public land, including BLM and national forest properties.
Can I use thermal or night vision optics?
Only on private land. Use on public land requires permits and is regulated.
What sounds work best for calling coyotes?
Prey distress, coyote howls, and pup distress depending on season and activity.
Do I need permission to hunt private land?
Yes, always get landowner permission before hunting private property in Utah.
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