How to Hunt Coyotes at Night Using Thermal Optics

Introduction to Night Hunting

Night hunting is a thrilling and challenging experience, especially when it comes to coyote hunting. To successfully hunt coyotes at night, one needs to understand the basics of night hunting and the equipment required. Night hunting involves using spotlights, thermal scopes, or night vision scopes to locate and track coyotes in the dark. It’s essential to know your shooting distance and to keep the wind in your face to avoid detection. Coyotes are nocturnal animals, making nighttime the perfect time to hunt them. With the right equipment and techniques, nighttime coyote hunting can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Night Hunting Opportunities for Coyotes

Hunting coyotes at night is one of the most exciting and effective ways to pursue these smart predators, especially when they are hunted using advanced thermal optics. Coyotes are often more active after dark, using the cover of night to hunt and move without pressure. Successful hunts often highlight the durability and functionality of thermal optics, which are tailored to enhance the hunting experience, including features that support extended use during night hunts. With advancements in thermal optics, hunters now have a powerful tool to detect and target coyotes across fields, brushy draws, and open country.

Coyote Behavior at Night

Coyotes are highly nocturnal, especially in areas with heavy daytime hunting pressure. Hungry coyotes are particularly active and aggressive during the early hours of the night and towards sunrise when they are on the hunt for food. They use low-light hours to search for food, communicate, and travel between bedding and hunting grounds. Night hunting tactics revolve around understanding how coyotes use cover, wind, and food sources in darkness. Coyotes are attracted to sounds that mimic a distressed rabbit, as it signifies potential prey, which they may want to approach to either steal from another predator or scavenge a kill.

Legal Regulations and Equipment

Before hunting, always confirm night hunting laws and regulations in your state. Most states allow coyote night hunting on private land, and many permit the use of thermal optics and lights. It's crucial to ensure that your thermal scope performs well under various weather conditions to maintain clear imaging and operational reliability. Hunters typically use centerfire rifles in .223 or larger calibers paired with thermal scopes or handheld scanners to detect heat signatures at a distance. Extreme temperatures can adversely affect the performance of thermal scopes, impacting battery life and image clarity, so evaluating scopes under such conditions is essential for reliability in real hunting scenarios.

Best Strategies for Night Hunting with Thermal Optics

Scouting During Daylight

Use daytime scouting to locate likely coyote travel routes, bedding cover, and hunting grounds, paying attention to how quickly they can traverse the ground. It's also important to scan woods for potential coyote hiding spots. Identify field edges, creek beds, and fence lines where coyotes might move after dark.

Setting Up for Success

Wind direction is critical at night. Set up downwind of expected travel routes and near the closest cover to maximize your chances of an encounter. Hunting during a bright moon phase can be challenging as the moonlight can illuminate your outline, so opt for camo and limit movement to remain concealed. Thermal optics allow you to see approaching coyotes without movement or illumination that might give away your position.

Calling Tactics

Electronic calls with prey distress sounds, lone howls, or pup distress yelps can be called to bring coyotes into shooting range. It is important not to make calls continuously for half an hour, as this can seem unnatural. Use moderate volume to avoid spooking close coyotes, and pause between sequences to scan for movement.

Shot Placement

Thermal optics provide a clear heat signature, but identifying precise shot placement for long shots requires experience. Many hunters have shared personal anecdotes about the number of animals killed using specific equipment during nighttime hunts. Focus on broadside opportunities and aim for the shoulder or chest area to ensure quick, ethical kills.

Tips for Using Thermal Optics

Scanning Techniques

Use a handheld thermal scanner to cover wide areas while keeping your rifle ready for quick engagement. The stadiametric rangefinder is a valuable feature that enhances accuracy with various reticle options, making it particularly useful for adapting to different shooting conditions and calibers. Constant scanning prevents surprises and helps spot coyotes before they circle downwind. The ranging capability of thermal scanners is highly effective for spotting targets at significant distances, such as beyond 300 yards, and the built-in laser rangefinder provides precise measurements, especially in challenging weather conditions.

Stay Stealthy

Thermal optics reduce the need for lights, but minimizing ambient noise is crucial. Hunting in environments with less ambient noise means that even minor sounds can alert coyotes to your presence. Move slowly, minimize noise, and use terrain to break up your silhouette even in darkness.

Safety Precautions and Considerations

Safety is a top priority when it comes to nighttime coyote hunting. It’s essential to take necessary precautions to avoid accidents and ensure a safe hunting experience. Always keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot, and make sure you have a clear shot before firing. Be aware of your surroundings and watch for other animals, such as deer or dogs, that may be in the area. It’s also essential to follow all local regulations and guidelines for nighttime coyote hunting. Additionally, consider hunting with a partner and letting someone know your location and expected return time.

Tips for Beginners in Coyote Hunting

For beginners, coyote hunting can seem intimidating, but with the right tips and techniques, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. One of the most important tips is to stay quiet and avoid making unnecessary noise. Coyotes have excellent hearing and can detect even the slightest sound. It’s also essential to be patient and wait for the right shot. Don’t rush into shooting, and make sure you have a clear shot before firing. Additionally, consider using calling techniques to lure coyotes into range. Calling techniques can be an effective way to attract coyotes, but it’s essential to use them correctly to avoid educating the coyotes. With practice and patience, beginners can become successful coyote hunters and enjoy the thrill of nighttime coyote hunting.

Conclusion

Night hunting for coyotes with thermal optics combines skill, patience, and the right gear into an exciting and productive hunting experience. By mastering your equipment, scouting effectively, and understanding coyote behavior, you can consistently outsmart these elusive predators under the cover of darkness.

FAQs

Is night hunting legal everywhere?

No. Always check your state’s regulations regarding night hunting and thermal optic use.

The hunting process begins the moment you park your vehicle, so it is crucial to maintain stealth and quietness as soon as you arrive at the hunting location.

What is the best caliber for night hunting coyotes?

Most hunters use a gun with centerfire rifles in .223, .243, or similar calibers.

Do I need a thermal scope to hunt at night?

Thermal optics make detection much easier but are not required. Lights and a night vision scope are alternatives where legal.

Can I use electronic calls at night?

Yes. Electronic calls are highly effective for night hunting coyotes.

What time of night is best for hunting?

Coyotes, especially nighttime coyotes, are most active from dusk through the early morning hours.

How do coyotes appear through thermal optics?

Coyotes appear as bright, distinct heat signatures against cooler backgrounds, and while many thermal optics perform fine in various conditions, it's crucial to choose quality models to ensure reliability and functionality, especially in challenging environments.

Are handheld thermal scanners useful?

Yes. Handheld thermals allow for constant wide-area scanning without swinging your rifle.

Can coyotes see thermal optics?

No. Thermal devices do not emit visible light, making them invisible to coyotes. However, it is important to avoid light or bright colors while using thermal optics, as darkness serves as natural camouflage.

Should I move stands if I do not see anything?

Yes. If no coyotes respond after about 30 minutes, course to a new stand location.

Are thermal optics expensive?

Thermal scopes and handhelds can be costly, but they are a game changer and a valuable investment for serious night hunters.