The Indiana Predator Challenge is a competitive predator hunt that was developed in 2004 by some of Indiana’s most dedicated callers. Conversations on various online hunting forums and Southern Indiana gun stores seemed to indicate that there was a sufficient interest in predator hunting so a couple active members started laying the foundation of Indiana’s first competitive hunt to bring these guys together. Jason Bruce and Scott Banfield stepped forward as the hunts primary sponsors and developers. With help from experienced callers, prize sponsors and facilitators of similar contest around the country the first ever Indiana Predator Challenge was created.

On January 14^th, 2005 all the plans and coordination came together and the first hunt began. The 2005 IPC included a full weekend of predator hunting, an exciting rifle competition and a great chili dinner for all contestants.  Each team was able to call up animals but only one would walk away winners of new 17HMR rifles. Points were earned for each Red Fox, Gray Fox and Coyote harvested. Bonus points were also given to the team that won the rifle competition.

Several contestants left the 2005 Indiana Predator Challenge with prizes in hand but everyone left with memories and stories of a great gathering. Not long after the dust settled on the first successful hunt the planning process began for 2006.  By July of 2005 the Indiana Predator Challenge was published in numerous magazines, featured in various newsletters and began scheduling booths at events across the state.

As the hunt grew in popularity and promotional opportunities became a daily occurrence the organizational structure of the IPC was updated.  In August of 2005 Jason Bruce, of New Salisbury, took the reigns and began coordinating the newfound resources of various companies and independent contributors.  The result would be a major improvement in the value Indiana Predator Challenge supporters received for each dollar collected.  The prize packages jumped 200% in value over a period of 12 months… a landmark success for the fledgling competition and a great sign of things to come.

In late January - early February of 2006 predator callers from all around the state once again began the pilgrimage to Southern Indiana.  At one o’clock on February 3^rd the competition opened and by 1:30 the first coyote hit the ground!    With minor organizational changes being made over the summer in scheduling, budgeting and promotion the hunt still maintained the same great atmosphere for contestants.   Once the event was complete it was obvious the new strategies and focus had paid off big for the IPC.   The 06’ event saw an enormous increase in Volunteers, Registrations, Donations, Merchandise Sales and Successful hunters to name just a few.

The goal of each Indiana Predator Challenge event is to bring some of the regions predator callers together for a great hunt and some wonderful camaraderie. Many ages, experience levels and techniques are represented at the event but everyone is there for a good time. As the popularity of calling the Eastern coyote continues to grow the Indiana Predator Challenge stands ready to lead the pack!

If you have any questions about the Indiana Predator Challenge please contact Jason Bruce at Jrbhunter@hotmail.com