Yep — Alabama sets a specific squirrel season, and you can hunt during certain months with a daily bag limit and a few rules you’ve got to follow. You’re allowed to hunt squirrels in Alabama during the fall and winter, but you need to pay attention to season dates, bag limits, and local area rules.
Maybe you’re planning a trip or just curious about trying squirrel hunting for the first time. This guide will help you figure out when the season runs, how many squirrels you can take, and what areas might have special restrictions.
You’ll also find out what licenses and permits you need to stay legal and safe out there.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons and Regulations in Alabama
You’ll want to know the dates, limits, and which squirrel species you’re allowed to hunt. Alabama’s rules set the start and end dates, bag limits, and hunting hours you need to follow.
Current Squirrel Season Dates
Alabama’s squirrel season usually starts in mid-September and goes through early March. For 2025–2026, the official dates are September 13 to March 1—but honestly, it’s smart to double-check the dates each year before you go.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources posts the latest calendar and any updates on its website.
You also need a valid Alabama hunting license if you’re hunting small game. Public lands and some state forests might have their own opening or closing days or extra rules, so make sure you check the details for wherever you plan to hunt.
Types of Squirrels You Can Hunt
In Alabama, you’re allowed to hunt both fox squirrels and gray squirrels. Fox squirrels tend to be bigger and hang out in open pine or hardwood areas.
Gray squirrels like denser hardwood forests and honestly, you’ll see them all over the state.
Sometimes, certain areas will close hunting for specific species or populations if there’s a concern. Not sure what you’ve got? Snap a photo or pay attention to size and color before you take a shot.
Local ADCNR pages and field guides can help you tell the difference between fox and gray squirrels.
Bag Limits and Legal Hunting Hours
Alabama lets you take up to 8 squirrels per day, and you can have 8 in possession at any time—unless a certain area has a different rule. That limit counts both fox and gray squirrels together.
Hunting over bait is usually restricted for most game species, so it’s best to check the ADCNR website for the latest small game baiting rules.
Hunting hours for small game generally run from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Local rules might tweak those hours, so it pays to double-check.
Always carry your license and stick to the posted hours to avoid any trouble. For official info and any county-specific rules, check out the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources hunting pages, like the Squirrel Season information.
Licenses and Legal Requirements for Squirrel Hunting
You need the right license, and it’s important to know where and when it applies. Public lands and small-game seasons often come with their own set of rules.
Read the labels on your license and check county season dates before you head out.
Who Needs an Alabama Hunting License?
If you’re 16 or older and want to hunt squirrels in Alabama, you’ll need a valid Alabama hunting license. That goes for both residents and nonresidents, unless you qualify for an exemption—like active-duty military on leave or certain landowners.
Youth under 16 usually don’t need a license, but they still have to follow safety and supervision rules.
You can buy your license online from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources or at an authorized vendor. Keep your license on you while hunting and be ready to show it if a conservation officer asks.
If you break licensing rules, you could face fines or even lose your hunting privileges.
Small Game Hunting License Information
Squirrel hunting falls under Alabama’s small game regulations. You’ll need either a general hunting license that covers small game, or a specific small game license if that’s what’s required in your area.
Licenses list the seasons, bag limits, and the legal weapons for small game. Bag limits and season dates might change by county, so it’s always a good idea to check the listings for your area before you hunt.
If you’re after more than just squirrels, make sure your license covers everything you plan to hunt. Some combination licenses include small game and fishing privileges, which is pretty handy.
Double-check whether nonresident licenses or special permits are needed for your situation. And don’t forget to keep proof of purchase and any required stamps with you while you’re out in the field.
Additional Rules for Hunting on Public Lands
If you plan to hunt on public land in Alabama, you’ll usually need to grab a free daily permit or register before heading out. Many wildlife management areas (WMAs) set their own special seasons, quota hunts, or weapon rules that don’t always match the statewide guidelines.
Pay attention to posted signs and any WMA-specific rules. You have to follow them.
On federal lands, you’ll need to stick to both federal and state hunting rules. Always respect designated access points, parking areas, and safety zones near roads or buildings.
Some WMAs ask you to check in or out when you arrive or leave. If you skip that step, you could get fined or even kicked out of the area.
You can find official details and seasonal dates on the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website. They also post the specific WMA rules and permit instructions you’ll need before you hunt.
