Deer hunters watch for cold fronts and barometric pressure changes to predict deer movement. What about coyote hunters? I will lay out my advice for those of you wishing to call the optimal conditions.

Precipitation

I prefer not to call in rain or snow. I do not call in rain for the simple reason that I want to limit the number of times my rifle become wet. I have called the front side of snowstorms, believing that because deer increase movement at such times coyotes would do the same, but have not had luck. I have found fog to have some benefits. I believe that fog, allowing for a couple hundred yards of visibility, prevents coyotes from seeing a hunter sneak into position. Fog also prevents coyotes from being spotted by passing cars. As a result, I believe coyotes will remain active longer as they will not head for their holes upon seeing the first vehicle. Though fog has it’s positives it can also cause scopes to become blurry. Thus, before beginning a stand, insure that your scope is clear.

Following a Storm.

Each winter Iowa experiences at least one major snow storm, which rages over the course of several days. I believe that getting out as soon as the storm subsides is one of the best times to call coyotes. The coyotes have spent several days holed up and are anxious to find food. As a result, they will be much more willing to respond to a call. On these days you can also search for coyotes on southern facing hills and terraces, as they lie in the sun.

Considering Wind

I do not believe in calling when the wind is over 15 mph. Most coyotes hole up in such conditions, and, if not, will be unlikely to hear your call. Additionally, understand that even a 10 mph can vastly limit the distance sound travels. I have had coyotes coming in and let off the call too early, which led to them hanging up out of range. In most conditions it is best to limit calling in order to avoid letting a coyote pinpoint your exact location and movements. However, if a coyote is upwind a couple hundred yards, it may not be able to hear a lip squeal that would normally bring it in the rest of the way. If that is the case, stay on the call just enough to keep the coyote moving in your direction.