Have you ever felt that frustrating silence when you’re out hunting, hoping for action but only hearing the wind? Many hunters know that feeling. Calling in predators like coyotes or foxes takes skill, and a big part of that skill involves using the right sounds.
Choosing the perfect predator call can feel overwhelming. Should you pick an open-reed call, a diaphragm call, or maybe an electronic caller? Each type makes different sounds, and the wrong choice can mean the difference between an exciting encounter and a wasted day. Hunters often struggle to match the call to the local wildlife and the specific hunting conditions.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the main types of predator calls, explain what sounds they make best, and show you how to pick the one that fits your style. By the end of this post, you will have the knowledge to select a reliable call that brings the game closer.
Table of Contents
Top Predator Calls Recommendations
- An industry-leading 300-yard remote range to help you keep hidden when hunting.
- New high fidelity sound technology
- Play multiple sounds simultaneously
- 15 professional sounds included
- Backlit buttons for night hunting
- 150-yard remote range allows for flexibility in caller placement out in the field. More distance from caller = less chance of scaring off your game.
- Easy-to-use remote, giving you access to 15 professionally recorded and composed sounds that are included on every Furnado.
- Wrapped in realistic-looking fur and includes furry decoy topper, both designed to assist in luring in the game you're hunting.
- Up to 40 hours of battery life, outlasting other products in the same category. (4) AA batteries and (1) A23 battery required.
- Top-notch plastic results in our top-notch durability resulting in a much more durable product to throw in the truck and carry in and out of the field.
- 300-yard remote range - Play two sounds simultaneously
- Bluetooth range up to 100-yards
- New crystal audio sound clarity
- 30 professional audio calls
- Backlit buttons for night hunting
- 300 yard remote control range
- 100 yard Bluetooth range
- Plays two sounds simultaneously - Included 2 play buttons and 2 pause buttons
- Includes 165 sounds (Featuring 15 sounds from Tony Tebbe of Predator University)
- Store up to 2,000 sounds on the included 32GB SD card
- Proudly Made in the USA.
- The FOXPRO Hellcat is a digital game call and decoy designed for all hunters, known for its portability and affordability.
- Comes with 175 sounds (75 Premium Sounds plus FOXPRO's Free Sound Library) and can store up to 300 sounds.
- Features the TX433XL transmitter with a larger LCD screen, elastomeric keypad, and easy navigation through sound categories.
- Includes a built-in decoy with a bluebird topper for added realism to attract predators.
- 【Remote Control】Allows you to place coyote calls away from your hiding place for concealed operation. Backlit buttons for night hunting. Requires 1 A23 battery (not included)
- 【30 Proven Sounds】Authentic prey-in-distress sounds trigger natural hunting instincts. Effectively lure wary coyotes and foxes with sounds like Cottontail Distress.
- 【Decoy Topper】: Includes 2 adjustable speed prey decoy toppers. The hunting calls feature audible and visual dual attraction system for a better hunting experience
- 【Play 2 Sounds Simultaneously】The hunting call for coyote can play 2 sounds at the same time for more realistic attract
- 【Bluetooth Compatible】for more custom sounds, you can play more sounds through smart phone with Bluetooth mode
- Includes 165 sounds, holds up to 2,000 sounds on an SD card
- 300 yard non-line-of-sight remote range - Bluetooth connectivity up to 100 yards
- IMPROVED - Ultra-clear sound quality
- Play 2 sounds at the same time
- Plays 16, 24 and 32 bit .wav files as well as Animal Audio .aaf files
- 100 Johnny Stewart Premium Calls
- 3.5 Horn Speaker reaching 120dB
- Easily set QSET & Favorite Calls
- Sequential Call Feature - Set calls to play in order
- Powered by 8 AA Batteries (Base) & 4 AA Batteries (Remote)
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Predator Calls
If you want to successfully hunt predators like coyotes, foxes, or bobcats, you need the right tools. A good predator call can mimic the sounds that attract these animals to you. This guide will help you choose the best call for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a predator call, several features really matter. Think about what kind of animal you are targeting and where you plan to hunt.
Sound Versatility
The best calls let you make many different sounds. Can the call produce high-pitched distress squeals? Can it make raspy coyote yips and howls? A versatile call means you only need one tool for different situations. Look for calls that can easily switch between sounds.
Ease of Use
A complicated call will frustrate you in the field. Can you operate the call quickly, even when wearing gloves? Simple designs are often better for beginners. You need to focus on watching for game, not fiddling with your equipment.
Volume Control
You must control how loud your call is. In open fields, you need a loud call to carry your sound far. In thick woods, a quieter, more localized sound works best. Check if the call has an adjustable volume or a way to easily muffle the sound.
Important Materials for Durability
The material of your call affects how long it lasts and how well it performs in different weather. Predator calls often face harsh conditions—rain, snow, and mud.
- Durable Plastics: Most modern calls use tough, high-impact plastics. These resist cracking when dropped or exposed to cold temperatures. Good plastic keeps the sound chamber sealed properly.
- Wood: Some traditional callers prefer wooden calls, especially for closed-mouth or diaphragm calls. Wood often offers a warmer, more natural tone. However, wood needs better care to prevent swelling from moisture.
- Rubber/Silicone Components: These materials are often used for reeds or mouthpieces. Soft, flexible rubber creates the most realistic sounds. Ensure these parts are securely fitted so they do not shift during use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the sound directly impacts your success. A poor sound can actually scare an animal away instead of attracting it.
What Makes a Quality Call?
Realistic Tone: The best calls sound exactly like a real animal in distress. Manufacturers who spend time tuning their reeds or internal mechanisms produce higher-quality sounds. Test the call if possible; does it sound authentic, or does it sound like a squeaky toy?
Consistent Performance: A high-quality call works the same way every time. You should not have to blow harder or softer just to get the correct pitch.
What Lowers the Quality?
Moisture Issues: If the call easily traps moisture inside, the reeds can stick or warp. This destroys the sound quality quickly. Look for designs that shed water easily.
Poor Fit and Finish: If the pieces of the call do not fit together tightly, air leaks can occur. These leaks make it impossible to produce the sharp, clean sounds needed for effective calling.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the call heavily influences your best choice.
Beginners vs. Experts
Beginners usually find success with **open-diaphragm calls** (like a small whistle or tube) or simple **hand-squeezed calls**. These require less breath control. Experts often master **closed-mouth calls** or **diaphragm calls** (placed in the mouth), which offer superior control over pitch and volume but demand practice.
Hunting Scenarios
If you are hunting open plains for coyotes, you need a call that produces extremely loud, long-distance sounds. If you are stalking foxes in dense brush, a smaller, quieter call that mimics rabbit distress is more appropriate. Always match the call type to the environment and the target species.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Predator Calls
Q: What is the difference between an open and a closed-mouth call?
A: An open-mouth call typically uses a tube or external reed that air passes through. A closed-mouth call is held entirely in the mouth, and the hunter uses tongue and lip pressure to change the sound, giving more precise control.
Q: Do I need a separate call for every predator?
A: Not necessarily. Many versatile calls can mimic coyote, fox, and sometimes bobcat sounds. However, specialized calls often produce the most realistic sounds for one specific animal.
Q: How often should I clean my predator call?
A: You should clean your call after every few outings, especially if you use it in humid or dusty conditions. Moisture and dirt ruin the sensitive reeds.
Q: Can I use my predator call to call in game other than predators?
A: Yes. Distress squeals, often used for coyotes, can sometimes attract birds of prey or even hogs looking for an easy meal.
Q: What is the easiest type of call for a beginner to learn?
A: The easiest type to start with is usually the simple, hand-squeezed ‘raspy’ call, often sold specifically for rabbit distress sounds. They require the least breath control.
Q: How long should I call before expecting a response?
A: Calling sequences vary, but a common pattern is to call loudly for 30 seconds, wait quietly for 5 minutes, and then repeat with softer sounds. Patience is key.
Q: Does the brand name really matter for predator calls?
A: Yes, established brands often have better quality control over their reeds and tuning. While cheaper brands exist, they frequently lack the necessary realism.
Q: What if the animal comes in silently instead of howling?
A: This is common, especially with coyotes. They often approach quietly to investigate. Always be ready to stop calling and scan your surroundings constantly.
Q: Can cold weather damage my call?
A: Extreme cold can make plastic brittle, increasing the risk of cracking if dropped. Also, moisture from your breath freezes inside, which mutes the sound. Keep the call warm, perhaps in an inside pocket, when not in use.
Q: Is it illegal to use predator calls?
A: In most places, using predator calls is legal during hunting season. However, you must always check your local state and provincial hunting regulations, as some areas restrict the use of specific calling devices or have specific seasons.