Successful fox hunting requires strategy, skill, and respect for the environment. Whether you’re a PRO hunter or new to the sport, understanding the nuances of fox behavior and the terrain can significantly enhance your experience.
From choosing the right equipment to mastering tracking techniques, each aspect plays a crucial role in a successful hunt. With a focus on preparation, knowledge, and ethical practices, you can increase your chances of a rewarding outing while enjoying the thrill of the chase.
Let’s explore some essential tips to improve your fox hunting game.
1. Legislative Framework
Fox hunting—whether on the lookout or stalking—begins on January 1 in the United States, while France and the UK start their seasons on June 1. To participate, you must have a big game hunting plan or submit a specific request to your local Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (DTT). Depending on your department’s regulations, you need to carry either a deer bracelet or a copy of your hunting plan to verify compliance during checks.
Your hunting license is valid until January 31 each year, allowing you to hunt with your validation from the previous season throughout June. However, be aware that starting February 1, you will need a new validation. Also, keep in mind that communal hunts have their internal regulations that govern this practice.
2. Weapons and Optics
Equipping yourself for fox hunting requires a modest investment, but with thoughtful planning, you can stay within a reasonable budget. The primary necessity is a rifle. You have two options: use an existing one suitable for big game hunting (just avoid models like the .300 Weatherby or .375 H&H) or purchase a dedicated rifle for fox hunting.
If you already own a rifle, a bolt-action model is ideal; a semi-automatic can work as well. The next step is to equip it with a quality sighting optic. If your rifle is compatible with a removable mounting system, that’s a great advantage. This feature allows you to easily switch between different optics for hunting and stalking as needed. Additionally, ensure you have a pair of collars and the necessary adjustments for your setup, and you’ll be ready to hit the field!
If you want to buy a weapon specifically for fox hunting, it becomes interesting because several small calibers are suitable. The most common for fox hunting is the 243 Winchester. Taut, swift (also widely used to pull brocades as well) is produced by a good number of manufacturers at reasonable prices. At less than $500, there are very good rifles dedicated to this use (notably at Mossberg or ATA with its Turqua model).
Another excellent caliber for fox hunting is the .222 Remington. It’s more affordable, especially in configurations like the Kipplauf from Bergara. This caliber enables accurate shooting at distances of up to 150 to 200 meters, provided you have a solid understanding of your ammunition’s ballistics. Bullet weights typically range from 35 to 50 grains, with energy outputs varying between 1,000 to 1,500 joules.
Other noteworthy calibers for stalking and hunting include the 6.5 Creedmoor and the .308 Winchester. Both are highly versatile and suitable for hunting a variety of species beyond just foxes, offering exceptional ballistics. In summary, there is no ideal caliber but the 4 mentioned above will bring you comfort and performance.
Sound moderator or not?
The answer is almost unequivocal. If your weapon has a thread, use a sound moderator. It only has advantages: less noise and less disturbance of the territory. You can easily shoot several animals in the evening. The MDS also brings less nuisance to the neighborhood and finally more comfort when shooting. It is a magic tool for summer hunting.
Let’s now move on to the part concerning the optics because you need a bezel of course. Nowadays, all types of magnification exist and the best thing is to equip yourself with a so-called lookout telescope. We can still consider that depending on the frequency of outings, a mixed telescope can do the trick.
Some hunters prefer using driven optics, especially for shots under 100 meters. A 1-6×24 scope can suffice in adequate lighting. However, for more dedicated fox hunting, scopes like the 3-12×56, 2.5-10×50, or 3-16×56 are ideal choices. Your budget will play a significant role in determining the quality of your optics, which in turn impacts their performance in low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening hunts.
Remember that the more you have a high magnification telescope (and that you use it to its maximum) and the less light you will have, the greater the output objective and the greater the light. To put it simply, if you have a limited budget and cannot buy high-end optics, go for a classic magnification type 3-12×56. Conversely, if you want to have fun then another world opens up, which offers you prestige optics with their multiple magnifications and for some their ballistic turrets which can be very pleasant to use.
Note that Nikko Stirling offers a 3-12×62 scope (therefore with a very large output lens) at $479 which is perfect for this use. To conclude in a slightly more factual way, let’s say that a new special fox “pack”, rifle + scope is trading in the $700 to $900 for the first prices.
3. Clothing
Fox hunting runs from January to August, generally requiring light clothing. Opt for thin, quiet camo pants and a flexible camo jacket to stay comfortable and stealthy. Brands like Pinewood and Stagunt offer ideal outfits for this type of hunting. The key to success in fox hunting is remaining as invisible as possible, so a hood and gloves are essential additions. Don’t forget to wear sturdy, lightweight walking shoes, which you can easily find at online retailers.
4. Accessories
A lot of small accessories can make your life easier, think first of all to take a backpack so you don’t forget anything. Here is what we usually put in it:
- Lamp (see our review of the Best hunting lamp)
- Knife
- An extra sweater for chilly evenings
- Fox call
- Headquarters
- Binoculars
- Mosquito repellent (use sparingly if really needed!)
- A small talc pear to know the direction of the wind
- A bi-pod if you are not using a pirsch cane. Many models can be adapted to the rings of granardières
- A rangefinder
This pack is essential for a successful morning or evening on the lookout. There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your hunting spot only to realize you’ve forgotten your binoculars or other crucial gear.
Thermal vision: If you have the possibility of equipping yourself with a thermal vision monocular or thermal binoculars, this is a daunting accessory. The quality of these devices for 2 years has exploded and from around $1500, you can equip yourself with fabulous devices. Hunting with this device becomes completely different and gives you considerable help in detecting animals.
Another valuable accessory to consider is the pirsch cane, which can be either manually designed or manufactured. We highly recommend the excellent 4StableStick, available for around a hundred dollars for the first model.
Conclusion
This concludes our comprehensive guide on stalking and fox hunting, but much of the advice can be applied to any summer stalk hunt. In the next section, we will delve into techniques for sharpening your approach to Master Goupil and optimizing your chances of success. Stay tuned for valuable insights that will enhance your hunting skills!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the best time of day for fox hunting?
Foxes are most active during dawn and dusk, making these periods ideal for hunting. Early morning and late evening provide optimal visibility while taking advantage of the foxes’ natural habits.
Is calling effective for attracting foxes?
Yes, using calls can be highly effective. Electronic or mouth-blown predator calls mimicking distressed prey can lure foxes within range. Experiment with different calls to see which ones work best in your hunting area.
Can I use bait for fox hunting?
Yes, baiting can be effective. Use a mix of scents and food sources to attract foxes to a specific location. Ensure it is legal in your hunting area and follow local regulations regarding baiting.
What should I do if I miss a shot?
Stay still and patient. Foxes may circle back to investigate the source of the sound. Avoid making sudden movements or noises, and be ready for a second opportunity.