How to Dress for Coyote Hunting Day or Night
Introduction to Coyote Hunting
Coyote hunting is a popular and challenging activity that requires a combination of skill, patience, and understanding of coyote behavior. Hunting coyotes can be done during the day or at night, with nighttime coyote hunting offering a unique and exciting experience. To be successful, hunters must understand the habits and habitats of coyotes, as well as the local hunting laws and regulations. In this guide, we will provide an overview of coyote hunting, including the best times to hunt, the importance of camouflage and scent control, and tips for a successful night hunt.
Understanding Coyote Behavior
Understanding coyote behavior is crucial for a successful hunt. Coyotes are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts. They are nocturnal animals, but can also be active during the day, especially in areas with low human activity. Coyotes are highly intelligent and have a strong sense of smell, making them difficult to hunt. They are also social animals and often live in family groups, which can make them more challenging to hunt. By understanding coyote behavior, hunters can better plan their hunt and increase their chances of success.
Adapting to Light, Temperature, and Terrain
Coyote hunting presents a range of conditions that vary with the time of day, season, and terrain, with darkness offering both challenges and opportunities for stealth and improved calling techniques. Selecting camouflage patterns specifically designed for low light conditions is crucial, as coyotes have superior night vision and can detect changes in their environment.
Whether you’re sitting still for hours during a moonlit night or moving through sage flats on a crisp morning, your clothing must keep you concealed, comfortable, and ready to move. Choosing the right gear depends on visibility, weather, and how you plan to hunt—calling from cover, setting up on open ground, or stalking through rough country. When hunting at night, having the right gear and preparation, including night vision equipment and strategies tailored for nighttime conditions, is essential for success.
Concealment by Day
During daylight hours, visual concealment becomes more important than anything else. Use camo patterns that match your environment, whether that’s winter snow, autumn brush, or high desert terrain. In open country, light-colored earth tones or sagebrush camo are ideal. In timber or cover-rich areas, deeper greens and browns work better. A face mask and gloves in matching patterns help break up your outline. Avoid calling too frequently to prevent alert coyotes. Avoid shiny fabrics or bright colors that could attract attention and spook your quarry.
Stealth by Night
At night, visual concealment matters less than silhouette and scent. When using lights to spot coyotes, scanning for glowing eyes is crucial for identifying and tracking them. Opt for dark, non-reflective clothing that minimizes movement visibility under moonlight or artificial light. Black or dark gray outer layers help you disappear in the shadows, especially when hunting near cover or under a clear sky. Keep fabric noise to a minimum—quiet outer layers and soft boots or gaiters help avoid detection when moving to a setup or adjusting position.
Layering for Cold and Wind
Most coyote hunts—especially in the evening or early morning—mean dealing with cold weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, followed by a warm insulating mid-layer like fleece or wool. Your outer shell should be windproof and weather-resistant, whether you’re in a blind, sitting on a hillside, or walking in to your setup. Wind can strip heat quickly, so dress for sitting still even if you warm up on the walk in. Additionally, always consider wind direction to mask your scent and increase your chances of a successful hunt.
Warm-Weather Hunts
In warmer months, lightweight camo clothing with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics helps keep you comfortable. When hunting in dense vegetation, selecting appropriate camouflage with green patterns is crucial for effective concealment. Long sleeves and pants are still recommended for sun protection and scent control. Mesh-backed hats and moisture-wicking gloves add comfort while helping maintain concealment. Keep your clothing clean and store it in scent-free containers between hunts to reduce your scent profile.
Footwear for Varied Terrain
Coyote country includes everything from crop edges and fence lines to rocky canyons and grassy prairies. Thoroughly studying the hunting area is crucial to select appropriate footwear. Choose boots that match the terrain—light hikers for dry, open land and insulated, waterproof boots for winter setups. Quiet soles help when moving in close. In cold conditions, warm socks and insulated boots are critical for long sits. Consider toe warmers for sub-freezing temps when sitting still is key.
Accessories and Practical Considerations
A face mask or neck gaiter is essential for both concealment and warmth. It is important to note the drawbacks of using a decoy during nighttime hunting, as they can go unnoticed until it's too late and may attract unwanted attention from predators like owls. Gloves should allow for dexterity when operating calls or your rifle while providing enough insulation or ventilation for the conditions. Hand warmers, scent-control sprays, and a rangefinder pouch or extra ammo loops can be integrated into your outer layers or pack. Bring a headlamp or red-light flashlight for nighttime hunts and avoid fabrics that rustle or reflect light. Combining decoys with other tactical measures can enhance your chances of a successful hunt, but always consider legal restrictions on hunting practices.
Coyote Hunting Laws and Regulations
Before heading out on a coyote hunt, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the local hunting laws and regulations. These laws can vary significantly from state to state, and even from one region to another. Some states may have specific regulations regarding the use of night vision devices, thermal scopes, or other equipment, while others may have restrictions on the types of firearms that can be used. Additionally, some areas may have designated coyote hunting seasons or bag limits, so it is crucial to check with the local wildlife agency for the most up-to-date information. By following the local regulations and laws, hunters can ensure a safe and successful hunt, while also helping to conserve coyote populations and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Dressing with Purpose
Coyote hunting success often comes down to patience, preparation, and subtle movement. Dressing correctly for the time of day and the season increases your odds by keeping you undetected and focused. When night hunting, it is crucial to choose patterns for camouflage clothing that reflect the hunting environment and adapt to low-light conditions to enhance concealment and effectiveness. The right clothing keeps you hidden and comfortable, no matter how long the setup. Whether you’re calling under the sun or scanning fields beneath the stars, dressing with purpose is part of every smart hunter’s approach. Nighttime hunting presents unique challenges and rewards, requiring specialized equipment and strategies to succeed.
FAQs
What camo is best for daytime coyote hunting?
Use patterns that match your terrain—light sage or tan for open country, and darker greens or browns for wooded or brushy areas. Selecting appropriate camo patterns is crucial for daytime hunting, as the increased visibility and various sounds can easily spook coyotes.
Should I wear black when hunting coyotes at night?
Yes, wearing black or dark gray is crucial for a nighttime coyote hunt as it helps break up your outline under moonlight, especially when sitting against dark backdrops or using shadows to your advantage.
How should I layer for cold-weather coyote hunts?
Use a moisture-wicking base, a warm insulating mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell. The breeding season for coyotes, which peaks in late winter, leads to increased vocalization and territorial behavior, making it crucial to stay well-camouflaged and quiet during hunts. Add insulated boots, a face mask, and gloves to complete the setup.
Do I need scent control for coyote hunting?
Yes, scent matters. Use scent-free detergents, store your gear properly, and avoid wearing hunting clothes around strong odors.
Are gloves necessary for coyote hunting?
Gloves help with both concealment and comfort. Choose lightweight gloves for warm weather or insulated ones for cold, ensuring they allow for trigger control, handling calls, and effectively managing rifles.