Best Rated Electronic Predator Calls for Effective Hunting

I’ve spent countless hours out in the field, trying to outsmart coyotes, foxes, and bobcats. Over the years, I’ve learned that having the right gear makes all the difference, and a reliable electronic predator call is high on that list. It’s not just about making noise; it’s about mimicking natural prey sounds and predator vocalizations so accurately that you can draw in even the wiliest game. That’s why I’ve taken the time to dig deep and compile a guide to the best rated electronic predator calls for effective hunting available today. We’re talking about devices that have proven their worth, offering a blend of realistic sounds, durable construction, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking to upgrade or just getting started, you’ll find tested options and practical insights to help you choose the perfect call for your next successful hunt.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	FOXPRO Prowler American Made Electronic Predator Call…	View on Amazon
	Primos Hunting Dogg Catcher 2 Electronic Predator Call with…	View on Amazon
	FOXPRO Hellcat American Made Electronic Predator Call…	View on Amazon
	Hunters Specialties Johnny Stewart Executioner Electronic…	View on Amazon
	Western Rivers Walker’s Mantis 75 Compact Easy-to-Use…	View on Amazon

FOXPRO Prowler American Made Electronic Predator Call

The FOXPRO Prowler is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a high-quality, American-made electronic predator call. From my experience, FOXPRO consistently delivers on sound quality and durability, and the Prowler is no exception. It’s designed to be straightforward to use, making it great for both experienced callers and those new to the game. The remote control is particularly impressive, with a comfortable grip, a large backlit LCD screen that’s easy to read in various conditions, and glow-in-the-dark buttons that are a lifesaver during those pre-dawn or late-evening hunts. This call comes loaded with 75 premium FOXPRO sounds, but the real power lies in its expandability – you can store up to 300 sounds via its mini-USB port and even access over 100 more from FOXPRO’s free sound library. The high-efficiency horn speaker projects sound incredibly well, and having an external speaker jack means you can boost the volume even further if needed. Plus, there’s an auxiliary jack for adding the FoxJack 5 decoy, which can really add realism to your setup.

Key Features:
– Proudly Made in the USA by a top predator call company.
– Easy-to-use digital game call for various predators.
– Comfort grip remote with large backlit LCD and glow-in-the-dark buttons.
– Includes 75 premium FOXPRO sounds, can store up to 300, plus free library access.
– High-efficiency horn speaker and external speaker/aux jacks.
– Operates on 4 AA batteries for the unit, 9-volt for the remote (not included).
– Backed by a 3-year warranty and FOXPRO’s customer support.

Pros:
– Excellent sound quality and volume.
– Extensive sound library with expandability.
– Durable, user-friendly remote with backlighting.
– Made in the USA with strong customer support.
– External speaker and decoy jacks for versatility.

Cons:
– Batteries for both unit and remote are not included.
– FoxJack 5 decoy is sold separately, adding to the cost.

Best for: Hunters who prioritize a wide range of premium sounds, value American manufacturing, and appreciate a robust, user-friendly remote for diverse predator species.

User feedback summary: Many users praise its loud and clear sound output, the intuitive remote design, and the reliability they’ve come to expect from FOXPRO. Hunters frequently report success with coyotes and bobcats, highlighting the realism of the included calls. Some wish it came with batteries, but overall satisfaction is very high.

Primos Hunting Dogg Catcher 2 Electronic Predator Call with

When you’re looking for a compact and straightforward electronic predator call that doesn’t break the bank, the Primos Hunting Dogg Catcher 2 is an excellent contender. I’ve always appreciated Primos’ focus on practical, effective tools for hunters, and this call embodies that philosophy. It’s incredibly easy to use right out of the box, making it perfect for new predator hunters or those who prefer a less complicated setup. Despite its affordability, the Dogg Catcher 2 packs some serious features, including a 100-yard remote control and the very useful ability to play two sounds at once. This dual-sound capability is fantastic for creating realistic scenarios, like a distress call with a coyote howl in the background. It comes preloaded with 12 proven Randy Anderson sounds, which are known for their effectiveness on various predators like bobcats, fox, and coyotes. These aren’t just any sounds; they’re calls tested by one of the best in the business.

Key Features:
– Compact and simple to use electronic predator caller.
– Includes a 100-yard remote control.
– Ability to play two sounds simultaneously.
– Features 12 proven Randy Anderson sounds (e.g., Coyote Jack Set, Cottontail Distress).
– Effective for calling bobcats, fox, and coyotes.
– Operates on (4) AA Batteries for the unit and (2) AAA Batteries for the remote (not included).

Pros:
– Extremely affordable entry-point into electronic calling.
– Compact and easy to transport.
– Dual-sound capability adds realism.
– Proven, effective Randy Anderson sounds.
– Simple, user-friendly operation.

Cons:
– Remote range (100 yards) might be shorter than some higher-end models.
– Limited sound library compared to expandable options.

Best for: Budget-conscious hunters, beginners, or those who prefer a simple, effective call with proven sounds for common predators.

User feedback summary: Hunters consistently rave about the Dogg Catcher 2’s value for money and its surprising effectiveness, especially considering its price point. Many have reported successful hunts for coyotes and foxes using the preloaded Randy Anderson calls. Some users noted the remote range could be better, but it generally performs well within its advertised distance.

FOXPRO Hellcat American Made Electronic Predator Call

The FOXPRO Hellcat really stands out as a versatile and incredibly portable option, especially if you’re a FOXPRO fan looking for an all-in-one solution without the premium price tag of some of their larger units. What immediately grabbed my attention is that it’s a digital game call and decoy combined into one lightweight package, weighing only 2.2 lbs with batteries. This makes it super easy to carry on long treks or when you need to be mobile. Like its Prowler sibling, the Hellcat is proudly Made in the USA and comes packed with 175 sounds (75 premium plus FOXPRO’s free sound library), with the capacity to store up to 300. The included TX433XL transmitter is a significant upgrade, featuring a larger LCD screen and an elastomeric keypad for easier navigation through sound categories, even with gloves on. The built-in decoy, complete with a bluebird topper, is a fantastic addition, providing that crucial visual element to draw predators in closer, which can often be the difference between a call-in and a kill.

Key Features:
– Proudly Made in the USA.
– Digital game call and integrated decoy (with bluebird topper).
– Comes with 175 sounds, stores up to 300.
– Features TX433XL transmitter with larger LCD screen and elastomeric keypad.
– Highly portable, weighing only 2.2 lbs with batteries.
– Operates on 4 AA batteries, with 3-7 hours run time.

Pros:
– Integrated decoy for added visual attraction.
– Extremely lightweight and portable.
– Excellent sound variety and expandability from FOXPRO.
– Improved, user-friendly transmitter.
– American-made quality and support.

Cons:
– Battery run time (3-7 hours) might be a bit short for extended hunts without spare batteries.
– Decoy size might be smaller than dedicated separate units.

Best for: Mobile hunters, those seeking a lightweight, all-in-one solution with an integrated decoy, and hunters who appreciate FOXPRO quality on a more budget-friendly scale.

User feedback summary: Users are very impressed with the Hellcat’s portability and the effectiveness of the integrated decoy. The quality of the FOXPRO sounds is a consistent highlight, leading to successful predator encounters. Some mentioned wanting longer battery life, but overall, it’s considered a fantastic compact calling unit.

Hunters Specialties Johnny Stewart Executioner Electronic

The Hunters Specialties Johnny Stewart Executioner is a name that resonates with serious predator hunters, and this electronic call continues that legacy. If you appreciate a robust call with a focus on premium sounds and high volume, this is definitely one to consider. What really makes the Executioner stand out are its 100 Johnny Stewart Premium Calls – these aren’t just generic sounds; they’re curated, effective vocalizations that have a long history of bringing predators into range. The 3.5″ horn speaker is no joke, reaching an impressive 120dB, which means your calls will carry far, even on windy days or across vast open landscapes. I particularly like the thoughtful features like QSET & Favorite Calls, allowing you to quickly access your go-to sounds, and the Sequential Call Feature, which lets you program a series of calls to play in a specific order. This kind of customization gives you a real edge in the field, helping to create dynamic and convincing scenarios.

Key Features:
– Preloaded with 100 Johnny Stewart Premium Calls.
– Powerful 3.5″ Horn Speaker reaching 120dB.
– Easily set QSET & Favorite Calls for quick access.
– Sequential Call Feature to play calls in a specific order.
– Powered by 8 AA Batteries (Base Unit) & 4 AA Batteries (Remote).

Pros:
– Loud 120dB speaker for long-range calling.
– Premium, field-proven Johnny Stewart calls.
– Advanced features like QSET and Sequential Calling for strategic hunting.
– Durable construction designed for rugged outdoor use.

Cons:
– Requires a significant number of batteries (8 AA for base, 4 AA for remote).
– Remote range is not explicitly stated in the features provided.

Best for: Experienced predator hunters who demand high volume, appreciate a curated library of premium calls, and want advanced features for programming and quick access to their favorite sequences.

User feedback summary: Many users highlight the incredible volume and clarity of the calls, noting its effectiveness in attracting predators from a distance. The ability to customize call sequences and quickly access favorite sounds is also frequently praised. Some mention the number of batteries required but confirm its solid performance.

Western Rivers Walker’s Mantis 75 Compact Easy-to-Use

For hunters who prioritize portability and ease of use without sacrificing critical features, the Western Rivers Walker’s Mantis 75 is a compelling option. This call is incredibly compact and handheld, making it ideal for mobile hunters who move frequently or have limited space in their packs. Its remote control boasts a generous range of up to 300 feet, giving you plenty of distance to set up your call away from your position, minimizing disturbance. I really appreciate the thoughtful design, like the durable rubberized grips and two pivoting legs that lock into position, allowing you to stand the call up on uneven terrain. The backlit LCD screen is a nice touch, ensuring you can see the readout clearly in low-light conditions. While it comes with a selection of popular sounds designed to entice call-shy predators, its random repeat timed options are a clever feature that adds realism, preventing predators from identifying a repetitive sound pattern. This ergonomic caller is built for convenience, ready to be deployed or packed away in a hurry.

Key Features:
– Compact, handheld electronic game call with rubberized grips.
– Remote control operates from up to 300 feet away.
– Two pivoting legs for stable freestanding setup.
– Backlit LCD screen for low-light visibility.
– Preloaded with popular, realistic sounds.
– Random repeat timed options for added realism.
– Operates on 4 ‘AAA’ batteries (not included).

Pros:
– Extremely compact and portable design.
– Excellent 300-foot remote range.
– Durable construction with pivoting legs for stability.
– Backlit screen for ease of use in all lighting.
– Random repeat feature enhances realism.

Cons:
– Fewer preloaded sounds compared to some competitors.
– Uses ‘AAA’ batteries, which can have shorter runtimes than ‘AA’ or larger batteries.

Best for: Mobile hunters, those needing a very compact and durable call for quick setups, and hunters who value a good remote range with essential, realistic sounds.

User feedback summary: Users consistently highlight the Mantis 75’s small size and ease of transport as major benefits. The 300-foot remote range is a popular feature, allowing for flexible setup. Hunters find the sounds to be effective, especially with the random repeat function. A few mentioned wishing for more preloaded sound options, but overall, it’s considered a solid, reliable compact call.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re sifting through the options for the best rated electronic predator calls for effective hunting, a few key differences really stand out.

Starting with Sound Library & Customization, the FOXPRO calls, specifically the Prowler and Hellcat, are kings here. They offer extensive preloaded sounds (75-175 premium) and the ability to expand up to 300, plus access to free libraries. This means incredible versatility for targeting different species or adapting to various situations. The Primos Dogg Catcher 2 and Johnny Stewart Executioner offer more curated sets (12 and 100 sounds respectively), which are proven and effective but less customizable. The Western Rivers Mantis 75 has popular sounds but a more limited selection.

For Remote Control Range & Features, the Western Rivers Mantis 75 boasts an impressive 300-foot remote range, giving you excellent flexibility. The Primos Dogg Catcher 2 offers a respectable 100-foot range. FOXPRO remotes, while not always explicitly stating max range in their basic features, are known for their reliability and advanced features like backlit LCDs and glow-in-the-dark buttons on the Prowler, and improved screens and keypads on the Hellcat’s TX433XL transmitter. The Johnny Stewart Executioner’s remote range isn’t specified but offers helpful QSET and Sequential Call features.

In terms of Portability & Durability, the FOXPRO Hellcat and Western Rivers Mantis 75 are clear winners for compactness and lightweight design, making them excellent for mobile hunters. The Primos Dogg Catcher 2 is also very compact. The FOXPRO Prowler and Johnny Stewart Executioner are robust units, but less about extreme portability and more about powerful performance from a slightly larger footprint.

When Budget Considerations come into play, the Primos Dogg Catcher 2 is exceptionally affordable, offering great features for its price. The Western Rivers Mantis 75 also presents a good value in the compact category. FOXPRO units, like the Prowler and Hellcat, are a higher investment, but they deliver premium features, sound quality, and customer support. The Johnny Stewart Executioner sits in the mid-to-high range, reflecting its premium call library and volume.

A significant differentiator is the Integrated Decoy – only the FOXPRO Hellcat comes with a built-in decoy, which adds a crucial visual element to your calling setup. For other calls, a decoy would need to be purchased separately, if desired.

Lastly, both FOXPRO models are proudly American-made, which is a strong selling point for those who prioritize supporting domestic manufacturing and expect top-tier quality and customer service. The other brands are reputable, but this specific detail sets FOXPRO apart.

Battery Requirements also vary widely; from the Primos Dogg Catcher 2 (4 AA, 2 AAA) and Western Rivers Mantis 75 (4 AAA) being more battery-efficient, to the Johnny Stewart Executioner requiring the most (8 AA for base, 4 AA for remote), it’s worth noting to ensure you have enough spares.

Final Verdict

So, after breaking down these fantastic options for the best rated electronic predator calls for effective hunting, it’s clear that the “best” truly depends on your individual hunting style, budget, and specific needs.

• If you’re a serious hunter who wants premium features, a vast sound library, and unparalleled customization, the FOXPRO Prowler is likely your top choice. Its American-made quality, advanced remote, and expandable sound options make it a powerful tool.

• For an all-in-one, mobile solution with the added advantage of a built-in decoy, the FOXPRO Hellcat is tough to beat. It combines FOXPRO’s renowned sound quality with excellent portability, making it perfect for dynamic hunting scenarios.

• Hunters on a budget or those just starting out will find incredible value in the Primos Hunting Dogg Catcher 2. It offers proven calls, dual-sound capability, and a decent remote range at an extremely affordable price point, making effective predator calling accessible.

• If your priority is sheer volume and a curated collection of highly effective, premium calls, the Hunters Specialties Johnny Stewart Executioner will serve you well. Its 120dB speaker and advanced programming features are designed for serious strategists.

• For maximum portability, ruggedness, and a great remote range in a super compact package, look no further than the Western Rivers Walker’s Mantis 75. Its thoughtful design with pivoting legs and random repeat options make it a reliable companion for mobile hunters.

Ultimately, consider what kind of predators you’re targeting, how much you value portability versus features, and what your budget allows. Each of these calls brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring that with the right choice, your next predator hunt will be more effective and successful.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What makes an electronic predator call “effective” for hunting?
A1: An effective electronic predator call excels in several areas: sound quality and realism, ensuring the calls sound natural to predators; volume output to carry across long distances; a wide variety of sounds to mimic different prey animals and predator vocalizations; a reliable remote control with good range for hands-free operation from a distance; and durability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. The best rated electronic predator calls for effective hunting combine these traits seamlessly.

Q2: How far away can I typically operate an electronic predator call with its remote?
A2: Remote control ranges vary significantly between models. Many entry-level calls offer ranges around 100-150 feet, like the Primos Dogg Catcher 2 (100 yards/300 feet). Higher-end models, such as the Western Rivers Mantis 75 (300 feet) and many FOXPRO units, can extend up to 300-400 feet, and some advanced units even further. Always check the specific product’s specifications for its maximum remote range.

Q3: Are electronic predator calls legal everywhere for hunting?
A3: No, the legality of using electronic predator calls for hunting varies by state and local regulations. While they are widely legal for most predator species in many areas, some states or specific hunting areas may have restrictions or outright bans. It is crucially important to check your local and state hunting regulations before using any electronic call to ensure compliance.

Q4: What kind of batteries do these calls usually take, and how long do they last?
A4: Most electronic predator calls typically operate on common batteries like AA, AAA, or 9-volt batteries. The number of batteries required can range from 4 to 8 AAs for the main unit and 2-4 AAs or AAAs for the remote. Battery life varies greatly depending on the model, speaker volume usage, temperature, and whether a decoy is integrated. Runtimes can range from 3-7 hours on the lower end (e.g., FOXPRO Hellcat) to 10+ hours for more efficient models. Always carry spare batteries!

Q5: Can I add my own sounds to these electronic predator calling devices?
A5: Many modern electronic predator calls, especially those from brands like FOXPRO (Prowler, Hellcat), allow you to add or customize sounds. This is usually done by connecting the call unit to a computer via a mini-USB port and transferring sound files. Some manufacturers also offer extensive free or paid sound libraries to expand your collection. Simpler, more budget-friendly calls may come with a fixed set of sounds that cannot be altered.

Q6: Is an integrated decoy really helpful on an electronic predator call?
A6: Yes, an integrated decoy, like the one on the FOXPRO Hellcat, can be incredibly helpful for increasing the effectiveness of your calling setup. While sound draws attention, a visual element like a moving decoy adds a crucial layer of realism. When a predator spots the decoy, it can distract them from your position, entice them to approach more confidently, and sometimes even hold their attention longer, giving you a better shot opportunity.

Q7: What’s the benefit of choosing an “American-made” electronic predator call?
A7: Choosing an American-made electronic predator call, such as the FOXPRO Prowler or Hellcat, often comes with several benefits. These can include a higher standard of manufacturing quality, more robust materials, and a commitment to customer service and warranty support based in the USA. Additionally, it supports domestic jobs and local economies, which is important to many hunters.