The coyote is an integral part of predator hunting throughout the country, but the western U.S. is really coyote country. Western coyotes are superior to their eastern cousins in both body size and prime coats and color. Here are our picks for the best states for awesome coyote hunting.
Nevada
Nevada is ridiculous when it comes to coyote hunting. The central portion of Nevada is great for coyotes and although there are tons of private ranches, many will let hunters pursue song dogs during the winter long after the big game hunting seasons have come to an end. I have hunted there and I have felt like I had entire counties to myself with coyotes running everywhere. As a bonus, Nevada has the best quality western bobcats in the country and those little furballs fetch a hefty price at any fur markets.
Kansas
Kansas is also hard to beat for coyotes. Since the great fur market crashes of the 1980’s and 1990’s, professional dog hunters and trappers have virtually ceased to exist, leaving the bulk of coyote harvesting for the sport hunter. They are located in all parts of the state and although Kansas is a Midwestern state, the coyotes are still considered ‘western’ so their fur is very desirable and worth the effort.
Nebraska
Much of what makes Kansas a good coyote state applies to Nebraska as well, but the western part of the state beats western Kansas in coyote habitat. Hunting these dogs can be done throughout the entire state and winter permission is a great way get set up on virgin animals that are only used to big game hunters.
Colorado
Colorado’s massive number of national forests make it a hard state to beat for coyote hunting. With cold weather and higher altitudes, their coyotes are very prime and very hungry. Callers can find good success on animals that have never been hunted. Not having to spend large chunks of time asking for permission makes a big difference when it comes to enjoyable hunting trips, so the BLM and national forests are an invaluable asset.
Wyoming
Wyoming is a hunter’s paradise when it comes to coyotes. With wide open spaces and plenty of food and water, the Cowboy State offers 17.5 million public acres to hunt on. Night hunting is legal in Wyoming and there are plenty of reflective eyes to concentrate on as coyote populations are at good levels. There are plenty of bobcats and badgers as well.
