The MeatEater Podcast: Episode 632 – "Putting Up Coyotes"

Host: Steven Rinella
Release Date: December 2, 2024

In Episode 632 of The MeatEater Podcast, host Steven Rinella delves into the intricate process of handling and preparing coyotes, intertwining practical hunting techniques with engaging discussions on ethical hunting practices and listener feedback. This episode not only offers valuable insights for seasoned hunters but also addresses contemporary challenges faced within the hunting community.

1. Processing Coyotes: Tools and Techniques

The episode kicks off with a hands-on discussion about the tools and methods used in processing coyotes. Steven introduces Corinne Schneider as she demonstrates her first coyote flesh-out, providing a live demonstration that is both educational and entertaining.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [02:07]: “There's a number of tools here that she's gonna be using in my setup. She's gonna be using a Dexter, a sable draw knife, or flashing knife.”
• Corinne Schneider [02:55]: “Kind of looks like a machete with a handle on both ends.”
• Evan Hafer [02:28]: “For listeners, it's a 16-inch blade with draw knife handles on both sides.”

Corinne showcases a handmade knife, likened humorously to a "ninja sword," highlighting the blend of traditional and improvised tools in coyote processing. The hosts discuss the importance of using the right edge of the knife to efficiently flesh out the animal without damaging the meat or fur.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [03:00]: “It's like a ninja sword. Yeah, it's a ninja sword.”
• Steven Rinella [02:43]: “But I'm gonna let you use the pushing edge because the cutting edge you'll have to spend more time figuring out on.”

The conversation transitions into the practical aspects of fleshing out coyotes, emphasizing cleanliness and suitability for the fur trade. Steven shares his experience working with Stu Miller, a fur handler and trapper from southern Illinois, to explore different fleshing techniques.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [07:03]: “Stu Miller traps in southern Illinois. He flushes his coyotes clean down to the leather.”
• Steven Rinella [09:00]: “The other tool we have here is Tyler Friel, who's been on the show before, made this ULU knife.”

2. Hound Hunting for Deer in Virginia: Listener Feedback and Ethical Considerations

A significant portion of the episode addresses the contentious topic of hound hunting for deer in Virginia. Steven introduces listener feedback from Doug Durkin, a trapper grappling with the challenges of using dogs for deer hunting on private properties.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [34:02]: “Doug has brought up the difficulty of, in his area, the near impossibility of preventing your dogs from hunting on other people's property.”
• Steven Rinella [35:24]: “A listener writes about their torn stance on hound hunting regulations, viewing it as a slippery slope affecting both hunters and property owners.”

The discussion highlights the friction between traditional hunting practices and modern regulatory measures aimed at respecting private property rights. Steven and his co-hosts explore the implications of mandating GPS collars for hunting dogs and the potential erosion of hunting traditions through increasing regulations.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [40:37]: “What do you think can be done in cases like this where hunters are adversely affected by the actions and traditions of other hunters?”
• Corinne Schneider [40:53]: “There's no good answer. Right. Like, no.”

The hosts advocate for a balance between upholding hunting traditions and implementing measures that mitigate conflicts with property owners. Suggestions include training hound hunters to exercise more control over their dogs and establishing clear communication with landowners.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [47:25]: “This is tricky because you’d almost want to make a rule that says, like, don't push it.”
• Corinne Schneider [47:53]: “You could train hound hunters to be more courteous and restrained.”

3. Reciprocity in Hunting Licenses: Navigating State Regulations

Steven shifts the conversation to the concept of reciprocity in hunting licenses, a critical issue for hunters who own property and hunt across state lines. He examines listener Scott's dilemma regarding non-resident licensing fees despite being a part-owner of hunting land in Michigan while residing in Wisconsin.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [67:06]: “From a state fish and game agency's perspective, you can only be a resident of one state.”
• Evan Hafer [63:30]: “The reciprocity thing is a little more complicated than just treating residents and non-residents the same.”

The episode delves into the complexities of state and federal oversight, particularly concerning federally managed species like waterfowl. Steven explains how states negotiate reciprocity agreements to allow hunters to obtain licenses based on their residency and the management policies of each state.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [63:56]: “Waterfowl regulations are jointly managed by the feds and the state.”
• Steven Rinella [66:14]: “If you're a state that hosts a lot of breeding pairs, you're going to be treated differently than a state that only passes through for a month.”

The hosts discuss potential solutions for hunters facing high non-resident fees, suggesting that changing residency might be an option, albeit with practical challenges. They emphasize the importance of understanding and navigating state-specific regulations to maintain fair hunting practices.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [80:43]: “You could picture how that rule would come to be... and you know what, Scott should be ashamed of yourself.”
• Evan Hafer [81:01]: “I think it can be resolved with proper understanding of state regulations.”

4. Ethical Hunting Practices and Community Relations

Throughout the episode, Steven Rinella underscores the ethical responsibilities of hunters in maintaining sustainable wildlife populations and fostering positive community relations. The discussion reflects on how hunting practices must evolve to address modern challenges while preserving the integrity of traditional methods.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [53:18]: “If you're a hound hunter, don't push it. Control your dogs.”
• Corinne Schneider [53:57]: “Show some courtesy and some restraint now and then.”

The episode concludes with a reinforced message about balancing hunting traditions with respect for wildlife management and property rights, encouraging hunters to adopt practices that are both effective and considerate.

5. Closing Remarks and Future Discussions

As the episode wraps up, Steven Rinella previews upcoming topics and invites listeners to engage with the podcast by sharing their own dilemmas and questions. He emphasizes the continuous dialogue between hunters and wildlife management authorities to navigate the evolving landscape of hunting regulations.

Notable Quotes:

• Steven Rinella [72:37]: “If you’re trying to get something out of your wife or get a concession from your wife, but you can't think of how to approach it, I'll walk you through it.”
• Corinne Schneider [74:36]: “He's not whining over nothing.”

Key Takeaways:

• Practical Skills: The episode provides valuable insights into processing coyotes, emphasizing the importance of proper tools and techniques to ensure clean and efficient preparation.

• Ethical Considerations: Discussions highlight the need for ethical hunting practices, particularly regarding the use of hounds and respecting private property boundaries.

• Regulatory Navigation: Understanding reciprocity and state-specific hunting regulations is crucial for hunters who operate across different jurisdictions.

• Community Engagement: Maintaining positive relations within the hunting community and with property owners is essential for sustainable hunting traditions.

Conclusion:

Episode 632 of The MeatEater Podcast serves as a comprehensive guide on coyote processing while tackling broader issues related to hunting ethics and regulations. Steven Rinella's engaging approach, coupled with expert insights and listener interactions, makes this episode a valuable resource for hunters seeking to enhance their skills and navigate the complexities of contemporary hunting practices.