Most squirrel hunting in Michigan kicks off in mid-September and runs through March 31. Some species, like red squirrels and certain ground squirrels, are fair game all year. Double-check the exact dates and daily limits before heading out—nobody wants a ticket or to miss out on a good day in the woods.
If you’re thinking about chasing squirrels this season, here’s what you need to know. This article covers which species you can hunt, how long the seasons last, and which critters you can pursue any time.
You’ll also find info on licenses, bag limits, hunting hours, and some solid public land options. That way, you know where to go and what to bring.
Check out the next sections for season dates, licensing rules, and the best places to hunt in Michigan. Planning ahead makes for a safer, more enjoyable hunt.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons and Legal Species in Michigan
You can hunt fox and gray squirrels during set seasons if you have a valid license. Red and ground squirrels have different rules; you can often hunt them year-round.
Season Dates for Fox and Gray Squirrels
Fox and gray squirrel seasons usually run from mid-September through March 31. You’ll need a Michigan base license to hunt them.
Check the rules in your local wildlife management unit (WMU). Some places or special hunts might change the season dates.
Hunting hours stick to the standard: from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset. If a WMU or special regulation says otherwise, follow that.
Use firearms or archery gear that meet Michigan’s safety and legal standards. Don’t forget to wear hunter orange where it’s required. Always get landowner permission before hunting private property.
Year-Round and Special Regulations for Red and Ground Squirrels
Red squirrels and ground squirrels are often open year-round in Michigan. You can hunt or trap them any time, as long as you have the right base license.
You still have to follow humane methods and legal weapon rules. Michigan also lets you hunt feral pigeons, house sparrows, starlings, and woodchucks year-round.
Special regulations sometimes limit your methods—no poisoning, no illegal traps. Areas near homes or certain WMUs might have extra restrictions or seasonal closures.
The Michigan DNR updates rules and conservation orders every year, so check for changes before you hunt.
Bag Limits and Hunting Hours
The Michigan DNR sets bag limits for fox and gray squirrels, and these can change by season or WMU. Most small-game bag limits stay pretty reasonable to keep populations healthy.
Red and ground squirrels usually don’t have a daily bag limit if they’re listed as year-round, but conservation orders can change that.
You can hunt from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset. Night hunting isn’t allowed for most small game unless there’s a specific order.
Always carry your license and follow any tagging or reporting rules. Respect landowner wishes and public-land restrictions to stay on the right side of the law.
For the latest season dates and WMU info, check the Michigan DNR hunting calendar.
Licensing, Regulations, and Where to Hunt
You need the right license, and you’ve got to follow state rules for tags and hours. Pick public land or get permission for private land before you hunt.
Know the bag limits, when to report harvests, and where squirrels tend to hang out.
Required Michigan Hunting Licenses
You have to carry a valid Michigan hunting license if you want to hunt squirrels. Residents and nonresidents can buy licenses through the Michigan DNR or at authorized shops.
A small-game or combination license covers squirrels. If you already have a base hunting license, make sure it lists small game.
Buy or print your license from the Michigan DNR website or an official agent before you head out. Keep your license on you in the field.
Hunters under a certain age might need hunter education certification. Double-check age rules before you go.
For up-to-date pricing and online license sales, just use the Michigan DNR hunting pages.
Public vs. Private Land and Best Hunting Locations
You can hunt squirrels on most public hunting areas, state game areas, and state forest lands—unless signs say otherwise.
State game areas and big public forests with oaks and mixed hardwoods are usually great spots. You’ll find maps and rules for public lands on the Michigan DNR site.
Always get written permission before hunting private property. Meet the landowner and confirm boundaries.
Urban parks and subdivisions often have plenty of squirrels, but local rules might ban hunting. Use online maps and local DNR unit guides to zero in on areas with lots of squirrel activity.
Planning Your Hunt and Key Rules to Remember
Plan your hunts for early morning or late afternoon. Squirrels tend to move around the most during these times.
Always check the legal hunting hours. Usually, you can hunt from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, but double-check your specific zone and season.
Stick to bag limits and tagging rules. In some seasons, you’ll need to report your harvests to the DNR.
Use only approved hunting methods. Don’t bait if the rules say it’s not allowed.
Wear hunter orange whenever the law requires it. Keep your ID and hunting license on you at all times.
Learn safe firearm or archery practices. Make sure you respect private property lines—nobody wants a surprise visitor.
If you want the latest updates on regulations, check out the Michigan DNR hunting rules and squirrel hunting regulation pages before heading out.
