How To Skin A Coyote For Pelt

So, You've Bagged a Coyote, Eh? Let's Get That Pelt!

Picture this: You're out there in the wild, the sun's just starting to peek over the horizon, and you've got a coyote lying at your feet. You're thinking, "Well, I've done it. I've bagged myself a coyote." But now what? You might be thinking, "I've heard something about a pelt...". Well, buddy, you've come to the right place. Let's dive in and get that coyote's pelt, shall we?

First Things First: Safety and Respect

Before we get started, let's talk safety and respect. Make sure you're wearing gloves to protect your hands from any bacteria or viruses. Also, be mindful that this creature was alive just moments ago. Take a moment to appreciate the life you've taken and the nourishment it will provide.

Prep Your Workspace

You'll need a sharp knife, a good sharpener, a cutting board (or a clean, flat surface), and a way to hang the coyote. A sturdy branch or a deer stand works great. Oh, and don't forget a trash bag for the innards. We'll call that our 'guts bag'.

Skinning 101: The Basics

Alright, let's get down to business. The goal here is to remove the pelt in one piece, without damaging it. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Make the First Cut

Start at the coyote's hind leg, just below the anus. Make a cut through the hide, but be careful not to cut too deep. You want to just pierce the hide, not the flesh.

Step 2: Work Your Way Up

Using your knife, carefully cut up the inside of the leg, towards the body. Do this for both hind legs. Then, make a cut from the anus up to the neck, connecting the two cuts you've just made.

Step 3: The Big Cut

Now, make a cut from the neck down to the anus, right along the belly. Be careful not to cut too deep here. You should now have a 'U' shape cut around the coyote's rear end.

HOW TO SKIN A COYOTE - YouTube

Step 4: The Hard Part

This is where it gets a bit tricky. You're going to need to reach inside the coyote and cut the skin away from the flesh. Start at the hind legs and work your way up to the neck. It's a bit like peeling a banana, but with more resistance.

Step 5: The Head

Cut around the eyes, ears, and mouth, being careful not to cut the pelt. Then, cut through the skin at the base of the skull. You can now remove the head by cutting through the neck.

Step 6: The Final Cut

Make a cut from the neck down to the anus, right along the spine. This should allow you to remove the pelt in one piece.

Preserving Your Pelt

Congratulations, you've just skinned a coyote! But the work's not over yet. To preserve your pelt, you'll need to salt it and stretch it. Here's a quick guide:

How To Skin a Frozen Coyote FLG Style - YouTube

1. Salt: Spread a thick layer of salt on the flesh side of the pelt. This will draw out the moisture and prevent bacteria growth. Leave it like this for a few days.

2. Stretch: Hang the pelt by the tail on a frame or a deer stand. This will help it dry evenly and maintain its shape. Make sure it's in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.

3. Scrape: Once the pelt is dry, use a dull knife or a hide scraper to remove any remaining flesh or fat. Be careful not to damage the pelt.

And there you have it! You've just turned a coyote into a beautiful, usable pelt. Whether you're using it for a hat, a rug, or just to brag to your friends, you've earned it. Just remember, every pelt tells a story. Respect the animal, and respect the process.

Happy hunting, and until next time, stay wild!