Ben, I listened to the podcast last night and it was very interesting. As you know, I trapped my cat last year but I tried pretty hard to call one in all season.
I am no expert but here are my feelings on cats. I think your chances are increased when you call them like you trap them. On the sign! Of course it's easier to do this in January and February when there is some snow.
Byron said set up in the thick stuff but not to thick that it affects your sighting them and shooting. I also agree. My cat was caught on a steep ridge edge where the woods met a timbered area that was choked off with briars and tree tops.
The next time I get a tag, I am going to shorten my stands from 45-1 hour to 20-30 minutes. I have found when predator hunting over the years that 90% of the animals I call, come in within the first 10 minutes. Since I want to maximize my time, shorter and more sets should equate to better chances, I hope. I am also going to make my stands no less than a half mile apart.
Another thing I found interesting that Byron said was the sounds he likes to use. He likes the fast and frantic sounds the best. Electronic calls are great for cats because you can keep them running the whole stand. It's real hard to blow a call for a half hour solid. I dare you to try it if you think you can. I had to stop after ten minutes because I thought I was going to die.
Cat hunting / trapping is a blast. It's a great PA trophy for sure. If you ever get the chance, I definately recommend you try it.
