It is always a little depressing when the deer season comes to a close, but there is still a lot of hunting opportunities this time of year.

One of my favorites is predator hunting.

A coyote is one of the keenest of all animals and presents quite a challenge when hunting. With eyesight and sense of smell second to none, you have to be on top of your game to consistently take a wily coyote.

Coyotes can be taken with several different hunting styles such as spot and stalk or setting up in a well-used area, but the most exciting of all is to call them in. The first time you call a coyote in your lap — at less than five yards — is an adrenaline rush that is hard to match.

There are a couple of techniques that can be used to call coyotes.

One is to take advantage of their territorial nature and challenge them with howls and barks. An alpha male is sure to come investigate if he thinks there is a new hound on the prowl in his neighborhood. The second is to imitate prey in distress calls that will bring a hungry coyote charging in for what he thinks is an easy meal. Rabbit and mice calls are consistent producers when using distress calls.

Set-up is critical when predator hunting. It is important to sneak into your area so not to be seen, heard, or smelled by your adversary. One hint of danger and the hunt is over.

Once you begin calling, it is also important to give the spot some time before moving on. This especially holds true if you are also targeting bobcats. Bobcats can sometimes take as long as forty-five minutes to sneak into your position.

Coyotes and bobcats can be a detriment to deer and turkey populations. As hunters, it is important to keep predator numbers in check. This, along with the challenge they present, makes predator hunting a great way to spend a winter day.

Brian Williams’ outdoor column runs every Friday. To reach Brian about your outdoor experience, photos or general comments, e-mail him at 247brianbowman@sbcglobal.net.