The Coon Hunting Boom of the 1980s: A Walk Down Memory Lane

The Coon Hunting Boom of the 1980s

The 1980s were a unique and transformative decade for many industries, and coon hunting was no exception. During this period, the sport experienced a significant boom in popularity across the United States. This blog post will dive into the factors that contributed to the surge in coon hunting, the unique characteristics of the 1980s hunting scene, and the lasting impact of this era on the hunting community.

Factors That Contributed to the Coon Hunting Boom

1. Economic Prosperity: One of the major factors contributing to the coon hunting boom in the 1980s was the overall economic growth experienced during this decade. The expansion of the middle class provided more disposable income for hobbies, such as coon hunting, which required investment in gear and travel.

2. Media Influence: Coon hunting received a significant boost from popular media in the 1980s. Movies like "Where the Red Fern Grows" and TV shows like "The Dukes of Hazzard" showcased coon hunting as an exciting, adventurous, and wholesome pastime.

3. Hunting Technology Advances: The 1980s saw significant advancements in hunting technology, including the development of more powerful and accurate rifles, scopes, and ammunition. In addition, innovations in coon hunting-specific gear like headlamps, tracking devices, and protective clothing made the sport more accessible to a broader audience.

Characteristics of 1980s Coon Hunting

1. Nighttime Hunts: Coon hunting in the 1980s was primarily a nighttime activity, as raccoons are nocturnal creatures. Hunters would use high-powered headlamps and spotlights to locate and track their prey.

2. Use of Hounds: Coon hunting in the 1980s was closely associated with the use of well-trained hounds. These dogs were skilled at tracking raccoons by scent, and their baying would signal the location of the prey to the hunters.

3. The Social Aspect: Coon hunting in the 1980s was often a communal activity, with friends and family members gathering for organized hunts. These events would often involve friendly competitions and camaraderie among participants.

The Legacy of the Coon Hunting Boom

The coon hunting boom of the 1980s left a lasting impression on the hunting community. It created a subculture of dedicated hunters, many of whom continue to engage in the sport today. The advances in hunting technology from that era have continued to evolve, and the spirit of camaraderie and competition remains an integral part of the coon hunting experience.

The coon hunting boom of the 1980s was a fascinating period in the history of the sport, marked by economic prosperity, media influence, and technological advancements. Today's coon hunters still benefit from the innovations and cultural elements born during this decade, ensuring that the legacy of the 1980s coon hunting boom will endure for generations to come.