Coyote hunting is all about timing. Sure, your gear, calls, and camo matter — but if you’re not in the right spot at the right time, you might go home empty-handed. So, when exactly is the best time to hunt coyotes?

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned predator hunter, knowing when to head out makes all the difference. Let’s break down the best seasons, times of day, and even weather and moon phase factors that impact coyote behavior.

1. Best Time of Day to Hunt Coyotes

Coyotes are most active during low-light periods — just before sunrise and just after sunset. These twilight hours, known as crepuscular times, are when coyotes tend to hunt and travel.

  • Morning hunts (pre-dawn to mid-morning): Coyotes are coming off a night of hunting. They’re often heading back to bedding areas, and using calls (especially distress or pup yelps) can trigger a strong response.
  • Evening hunts (late afternoon to dusk): Coyotes start getting active again. This is a great time to use prey distress calls to bring them in as they begin their nightly hunt.

🔑 Pro tip: If you can only hunt once a day, early morning usually gives you the best odds.

2. Best Season to Hunt Coyotes

Coyotes can be hunted year-round in many states, but some times are far better than others.

✅ Winter (December to February) – Prime Time

  • Why it works: Less food means coyotes respond better to calls. Fur is also in its prime for those hunting pelts.
  • Bonus: Snow makes tracking easier.

✅ Late Fall (October to November)

  • Young coyotes are exploring on their own and are less cautious. This makes them easier to call and hunt.

✅ Breeding Season (January to March)

  • Coyotes are more vocal and territorial. Using howls and challenge calls can stir up a reaction fast.

🚫 Spring & Summer (April to September)

  • Coyotes are more nocturnal due to heat. They’re also raising pups, so they stay closer to dens and may not travel as far.
  • Success is lower unless you’re using night hunting tactics (where legal).

3. Moon Phases & Coyote Hunting

It might sound like overkill, but moon phase can impact how coyotes move, especially at night.

  • New Moon (dark nights): Coyotes rely more on scent and sound — perfect for calling them in.
  • Full Moon (bright nights): Coyotes can see better and often hunt all night, making them less active at dawn/dusk.

📌 If you’re hunting at night, go for a new moon or cloudy night for better concealment and activity.

4. Weather Conditions Matter

Coyotes don’t love extreme weather, but they will move if food is scarce.

  • Cold snaps: Increase activity, especially in winter.
  • Before storms: Coyotes often move ahead of incoming weather fronts.
  • After snow or rain: Fresh tracks are easier to spot, and calling is more effective as sound carries further in crisp, cold air.

Avoid super windy or heavy rain days — your calls won’t carry well and your scent control becomes much harder.

5. Location-Specific Adjustments

In desert or hot climates, night hunting might be the only real option during summer months. In cold northern regions, daylight hours in winter can be just as productive.

Always factor in local laws — not all states allow night hunting or the use of electronic calls.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the verdict on the best time to hunt coyotes?

✅ Best time of day: Early morning or late evening
✅ Best season: Winter
✅ Best conditions: Cold, calm days before or after a weather change
✅ Best moon phase: New moon for night hunting

Coyote hunting is a game of strategy, skill, and timing. When you line up all three — that’s when the action really happens.