Coyote & Predator | September 9, 2026
Winter on the farm creates a predictable pattern for coyotes as they hunt for rodents and small game in the open fields. The cold clears the air, making sound travel farther and allowing you to spot movement with a thermal scope at greater distances.
Start with a reliable sound source. Handheld predator callers or a small speaker paired with a battery‑powered amplifier work well. Choose calls that mimic a distressed pup or a wounded deer, and keep the volume low enough to sound natural but loud enough to carry across the fields. A simple rig of a call attached to a pole lets you place it near the edge of a corn row or soybean stand without exposing yourself.
Add scent to the mix for an extra layer of realism. Fresh coyote urine or a blend of urine and glandular scent placed on a small piece of burlap near the sound source can trigger a stronger response. Replace the scent every few hours to keep it active, especially if the wind shifts.
Positioning is key. Set up downwind of the field so the scent drifts toward the coyotes, and stay behind natural cover such as a fence line or a low ditch. Keep your silhouette low, and use a thermal optic to monitor movement without a flashlight that could spook the animals.
Timing your call for dusk or just after dark gives you the best chance to catch a pack on the move. Use short, intermittent bursts of sound rather than continuous calling; this mimics a real animal in distress and prevents the coyotes from getting accustomed to the noise. Stay patient, listen for the echo of a response, and adjust your setup as needed.