Most squirrel hunting in New York happens during the state’s small game seasons, which usually stretch from early fall into winter. Before you head out, check the exact dates and bag limits for your Wildlife Management Unit, and make sure you’ve got the right hunting license.
You’ll find out which squirrel species you can hunt, where and when you’re allowed to hunt them, and the main rules that keep everything legal and safe.
This guide should help you plan your hunt, follow the law, and hopefully enjoy your time in the woods.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons and Key Regulations
You need to know when the seasons start and end, which species you’re allowed to hunt, and what licenses you need to carry.
Dates, bag limits, and paperwork requirements can change depending on your Wildlife Management Unit and the type of small game you’re after.
Season Dates and Regional Differences
Squirrel season in New York usually opens in early September and runs into late February, but the exact dates depend on your Wildlife Management Unit (WMU).
Northern WMUs sometimes run later to account for colder weather and local squirrel numbers. Always check the DEC’s small game season maps for your specific WMU, since public lands and certain WMUs might have different open and closed dates.
Hunting hours generally run from sunrise to sunset, but local rules can change that. If you’re hunting on private land, double-check any town or county regulations about discharging firearms.
You’ll find the official season map and WMU info on the New York State DEC small game seasons page.
Daily Bag Limits and Legal Species
New York sets daily bag limits to help protect squirrel populations. Depending on your WMU, you can usually take between 5 and 12 squirrels per day, with limits varying for gray or fox squirrels and depending on protections in certain regions.
Make sure you know how to identify the legal squirrel species in your area—the DEC website lists which ones you can hunt and any special protections.
Don’t hunt non-game or protected species. Squirrel seasons fall under the broader small game hunting rules, which also cover rabbits, grouse, and other furbearers, so keep combined possession limits in mind when you’re transporting game.
If you’re planning a multi-day hunt, review the season bag and possession rules for your WMU.
Required Licenses and Permits
You need a valid New York State hunting license to hunt squirrels, whether you’re a resident or not. Youth and seniors might get discounts, but everyone needs the right license.
Some public lands require separate access permits, so pick those up ahead of time if you need them.
If you might hunt migratory game, register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP). Keep your license with you in the field, and if you were born after the cutoff date, make sure you’ve completed hunter education.
For license types, fees, and online purchase, check the DEC licensing pages for small game hunting.
Best Practices and Important Considerations for Squirrel Hunters
Stick to the rules, choose your gear wisely, and only hunt where it’s allowed.
Always know the season dates, bag limits, and access rules before you go.
Areas Open to Squirrel Hunting
You can hunt squirrels on many public lands in New York, but each spot has its own rules. Always check property-specific regulations.
State Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) often allow small game hunting, but some units restrict certain weapons or have special seasons.
If you hunt on private land, get written permission from the landowner. Carry proof of permission with you.
Respect posted signs, fences, and no-hunting zones near homes or working farms.
Carry your license and any required stamps at all times. Review bag limits for eastern gray and fox squirrels before you head out.
If you’re planning to hunt during a youth or hardship season, make sure you’re eligible and have your ID.
Hunting Methods and Allowed Equipment
You can use shotguns, .22 rifles, or archery equipment where it’s legal. Use small-gauge shot or the right shot size to avoid ruining the meat.
If you’re using rifles, stick to low-recoil, rimfire .22s, and always shoot with a solid backstop and safe angles.
Wear blaze orange when the law requires it or if you’re around other hunters. Use tree stands or ground blinds safely—double-check straps, secure stands, and always use a harness.
It’s smart to practice shooting at hunting ranges before the season starts, so you don’t wound animals.
Bring a small game vest or bag and a sharp knife for field dressing. Binoculars help you spot squirrels in the treetops.
If you run into dogs or hounds out there, keep your distance and respect property rules—those dogs might be working for other hunters.
Wildlife Management Areas Access
WMAs offer public hunting opportunities, but each unit can have different rules. Check the specific WMA map and unit rules online before you go.
Some units close at certain times for habitat work, protection, or to keep waterfowl and small game seasons separate.
Parking, camping, or drive-in access might be limited. Use designated parking and follow trail rules.
Carry any required map permit or special license with you.
Respect the habitat: don’t cut branches, avoid disturbing nests, and always pack out your trash.
Let anglers and hikers have the right of way. If you see posted restrictions for trapping or dog training, follow them—those activities often overlap with small game hunting on WMAs.
Connection with Furbearer Hunting
Squirrel hunting often overlaps with furbearer seasons and activities. You might run into trappers or fur hunters setting lines or working with dogs in the same woods.
Figure out where traps and checkers are allowed, and steer clear of any active traplines you come across. If you spot trapped animals or see equipment in use, it’s best to leave that area and let the land manager know if it feels necessary.
Take a moment to learn the furbearer seasons for animals like raccoon and fox. That way, you’ll avoid accidentally mixing up seasons or using the wrong methods.
When you’re retrieving your game, watch out for snares or clipped areas—you never know what’s hidden in the brush. It’s smart to keep gloves and a small first-aid kit handy, just in case you have a run-in with a trap or a dog.
Show respect to trappers and other hunters out there. A little clear communication goes a long way toward avoiding conflicts on public land.
