jdb, take the reed and bend it up away from the toneboard. Also, clean both the reed and toneboard. Blow with less air volume. It is more important to be smooth and steady, so you don't get breaks in your howl.
The ELK makes great coyote sounds, and one of my favorite howlers is the molded howler by KO Predator. Those are two good production howlers.
Be real simple with your howls everyone, or you will have coyotes going the wrong direction. A long, even howl without barks will work best. Just blow and wait. 90% of the time, you should not be calling with the wind in your face, especially in the late season. The smart ones are left, and they will be circling to your downwind side. Call with a crosswind or with the wind at your back.
Ignore moon phase. That has no bearing on coyote activity. It only matters when you are night hunting, because the coyotes can see you more easily.
Littletoes, if you want to use a decoy make it a small scraggly decoy in a submissive position. Something large will scare off more than it brings in.
That is my advice. Or stay home and leave 'em for me. That works too.
