I need a little advice on bobcat hunting. The season opens on the 20th here in Mass, and I want to give it a try. Earlier this year while grouse hunting my Setter jumped a big bob. The area was along a small stream that was choked with brush, and dammed up by beavers. It was a little late in the day, but the cover he jumed from was so thick I think we might have caught him in his den, or bed,or where ever they sleep.

I was thinking I would set up up hill of where I saw him on the edge of the mature woods and try using a distress call of some kind. Do you think this might work? If so, what is your recommended call?

I am also struggling with weapon selection. I am considering using my 30-06. I know this is rather large for bobs, but my only other alternatives are 50cal ML, shotgun, or bow. What do you think?

There are coyotes in this area too, so I believe there is a good chance of getting into something. The set up I have in mind, like I said puts me about 60-70 yards up hill from the stream. I'd be sitting right on the edge of the mature hardwoods, with a road 100-150 yrds behind me. The cover along the stream is pretty dense, and I think anything that would try to make a stalk would stay in that, and follow the stream.

Anyway, your opinions, I'm sure will be helpful. Thanks.