You can usually hunt squirrels during deer season, but it depends on where you are and which rules apply. Always check local regulations first, and throw on some bright hunter orange when deer season’s active—it keeps you safe and helps avoid any awkward run-ins.
If you pay attention to safety and follow the rules, you can enjoy small-game hunting without messing up deer hunts for others. Let’s dig into when squirrel hunting’s allowed, common restrictions, and some straightforward safety tips and methods to help you make the most of your time in the woods.
Can You Squirrel Hunt During Deer Season?
In a lot of places, you can hunt squirrels while deer season’s going on, but the rules really do change from state to state and even zone to zone. Before you head out, check weapon restrictions, clothing requirements, and daily bag limits.
Season Overlap and Timing
Squirrel and deer seasons often overlap. For example, gray squirrel season might start in early September and run through February, while rifle deer season usually peaks in November. That means you can chase squirrels during much of deer season in a lot of states.
But there are exceptions. Some states close squirrel hunting during certain shotgun deer periods or for youth deer hunts. Public land can have different rules than private land. Double-check the dates for your specific county or management area before making plans.
Legal Considerations and Local Regulations
You need to follow the laws where you hunt. States set the rules about what methods, calibers, and locations you can use for small game during big-game seasons. For example, some places ban .22 rimfire during deer rifle season or only allow shotguns for small game at certain times.
Call your state wildlife agency or look up your state’s hunting digest online. Rules can change every year. If you’re on public land, make sure you read any extra regulations for that specific area so you don’t end up with a fine or lose your hunting privileges.
Required Licenses and Bag Limits
Most states want you to have a general hunting license for any game. Many also need a small game license or stamp just for squirrels. You only need a deer tag if you’re hunting deer, but make sure you’ve got all the right permits for whatever you’re after.
Bag limits aren’t the same everywhere. Some states let you take 5–6 squirrels a day, while others have different limits depending on the zone or species. Keep a written tally while you hunt and know the seasonal totals. If you go over, you could get fined or lose your license. It’s worth checking your state’s posted bag limits before you head out.
Key Rules, Methods, and Safety Tips
You need to know the rules for gear, safety, land access, and even etiquette when you’re hunting squirrels during deer season. Stick to the weapon limits, wear visible clothes, get land permissions, and give deer hunters their space.
Firearm and Gear Restrictions
Check your state’s rules for allowed weapons. Many places let you use rimfire rifles (.22) and shotguns for squirrels, but not the centerfire rifles people use for deer. Scopes are usually fine on rimfires, but a few areas might limit optics for small game—so double-check before you go. Crossbows and bows are sometimes fine for deer, but not always for squirrels; the regulation booklet will spell out what’s allowed for each species.
Use small-diameter pellets or birdshot for squirrels—not slugs or buckshot. A compact rimfire or a lightweight shotgun with #4–#6 shot works well for clean hits. If you carry a rifle for deer, make sure it fits the caliber rules for small game, or just leave it at camp.
Hunter Safety and Visibility
Wear at least one piece of blaze orange during deer firearms season if your state says so. An orange hat or vest keeps you visible to deer hunters but doesn’t totally ruin your squirrel-hunting camo. Try to avoid sight lines deer hunters use, like ridges and open clearings.
Always know your target and what’s behind it. Squirrels love sitting on branches—don’t shoot toward other hunters or trails. Keep your scope capped when you’re moving and use a sling or case for your gun. Carry a whistle or radio just in case you need to let other hunters know where you are.
Public vs. Private Land Concerns
On public land, you’ll usually see more deer hunters during peak firearms days. Check zone rules and maps from your wildlife agency before you go. Some public areas close small game hunting in busy deer zones, so stick to those closures.
If you’re on private land, get written permission and ask the landowner about any deer hunts already planned. Respect posted boundaries and stay away from baited deer stands. If there’s a deer camp nearby, coordinate times and spots to avoid bumping into each other. Keep your squirrels separate from deer tags and follow any landowner rules about cleaning or processing game.
Hunting Etiquette During Deer Season
Don’t shoot from or too close to established deer stands. Most deer hunters rely on stands and take scent control seriously, so your movement or noise could really mess up their chances.
If you spot a deer hunting setup or a path, just give it plenty of space. It’s the respectful thing to do.
Try to talk with other hunters if you can. Let folks know you’re there and which way you plan to head before you move.
Keep calling and loud noises to a minimum. You definitely don’t want to spook the deer or attract attention you don’t want.
If you come across a deer stand that someone’s already using, just move on and pick a different spot for squirrel or small game hunting. There’s always another area to try.
