There is some great advice in this thread. UB -- I hope I didn't offend you, it was not my intent. I think many folks give the coyote too much credit in its abilities to "think", or "reason". My opinion is that it is learned responce from different senerios that particuar critter has been exposed to throughout its life, or genetics. Some coyotes are agressive, while others timid. That being said, I think ALL coyotes have something that will pique their interest and to be successful it is our job, as the hunter, to find out what that thing is.
While the cottontail distress is arguably the most commonly used call, it can also be a deturrent to a particular coyote, or coyotes that have had a bad experience with that sound. With all the new sounds on the market today, I think a e-caller is a great investment. It gives us a chance to think outside the box with the push of a button. It also gives us a chance to use coyote vocalizations without knowingly screwing the sound up, which in my opinion, is done more often than not. I don't think the average hunter studies yote vocalizations enough to use them properly. A howl is a howl type of mentality. With about everyone have access to the internet, there is no reason not to try to learn to speak the language. This site also has some of the best guys in the state, if not world, at calling and making calls.... sweet!
The siren is a awesome tool that can really get coyotes fired up and does not warrant a responce other than vocal. A great locator, and IMO underutilized. As stated, it gives you a chance to move through an area and come back later knowing your target is in the area. If I KNOW coyotes are there I feel better sitting longer on stand and it seems I am more attentive, and oftentimes more succesful.
I spend the spring and summer months scouting my area, searching for new ground, looking for tracks, scat, and dens. As Ben said, just because there is no sign now does'nt mean there wont be in the upcoming weeks. If your not finding sign, move on, but don't give up on those areas. Legwork will pay off eventually, and the more you put in, the bigger the rewards.............
I don't think I've ever posted this much in my life..
