You can hunt fox and gray squirrels in Michigan from mid-September through March 31. The Michigan DNR sets the exact start dates each year. Make sure you’ve got a valid base hunting license and stick to the season dates and rules for the squirrel species and zone you’re after.
If you’re looking for tips on timing, where to hunt, and which licenses you’ll need, you’re in the right place. This article covers season dates, licensing rules, and a few straightforward strategies to help make your next outing more productive.
You’ll find official season dates and small game rules on the Michigan DNR’s small game hunting regulations page.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Michigan
Most tree squirrel hunting in Michigan happens during a set fall-winter season. You’ll need to pay attention to daily and possession limits. Some smaller species can be hunted year-round if you have a valid base license.
Official Start and End Dates Each Year
Fox and gray squirrel season usually runs from September 15 through March 31. These dates cover the whole state, unless a special zone or temporary rule changes them. Always check for local updates before heading out.
The season stretches from early fall into spring. That gives you a shot at both leafy cover and those colder days when squirrels hit feeders more often.
You need a valid Michigan hunting license to hunt. Special youth or mentored hunts might have their own weekends or earlier access, so double-check before planning your trip.
For the latest updates or changes, look at the Michigan DNR hunting season calendar online.
Bag Limits and Legal Species
You can take up to five squirrels per day, with a possession limit of ten for fox and gray squirrels. Basically, you can have twice your daily bag at any time during the season.
Only hunt species that are legal—fox and gray squirrels are the main legal targets in the fall-winter season.
Stick to the weapon and method rules for small game. Double-check the current regulations for shotguns, rimfire, archery, and any restrictions near yards or roads.
If you spot a squirrel that looks unusual, it’s best to check identification guides or DNR resources before shooting.
Year-Round Opportunities for Certain Squirrels
Some small mammals are open to hunting or trapping all year in Michigan. Ground squirrels (like chipmunks), red squirrels, and a few others can be taken anytime with a base license.
This gives you more options outside the main fox/gray season, especially if you’re dealing with pests or just want some extra practice.
Year-round rules might have different bag limits and allowed methods, so read up on the details for each species.
Feral pigeons, starlings, and house sparrows are also available year-round under base license rules. Check the DNR pages for the full list and any special conditions.
Licensing and Hunting Requirements
You need a valid license to hunt squirrels in Michigan. Make sure you know where to get one and follow the rules about seasons, bag limits, and safety.
Keep your license on you, double-check season dates for your zone, and use approved gear and methods.
Michigan Hunting License and Regulations
Carry a current Michigan base license unless you’re exempt. Most residents aged 17–64 buy a base license, but youth and seniors have different fees.
Nonresidents need to buy the right short-term or full licenses for small game. Licenses expire March 31, so make sure yours covers your hunt date.
Fox and gray squirrels have a daily bag limit, while red squirrels can be taken year-round with no limit. Retrieve wounded game and count it toward your daily limit.
If you’re hunting on private land, get landowner permission even if you don’t need an extra permit.
Using mi-hunt for Planning
Use the Michigan DNR mi-hunt system to buy and display licenses, check season dates, and look at area maps. You can buy a base license, short-term nonresident small game permits, or pheasant and other stamps through mi-hunt.
The app updates closures and special regulations for specific management units. It also keeps track of your Harvest Information Program (HIP) status when you need it.
Carry a digital or printed copy of your license while hunting. If you’re after pheasant or migratory birds, make sure you’ve got the extra endorsements before heading out.
Additional Requirements and Prohibited Activities
If you’re hunting migratory game birds with small game, you might need a federal duck stamp and a HIP endorsement. You’ll need that federal duck stamp whenever you hunt migratory waterfowl, so grab one ahead of time if you plan to go after ducks or geese.
HIP registration doesn’t cost anything, but you still have to get it for certain species.
You can’t take more than the daily bag limit, use illegal baits, or spotlight wildlife. Don’t hunt on private land unless you have permission.
Follow the firearm discharge rules around buildings and roads. Before you head out, check local regulations and mi-hunt notices—sometimes there are temporary restrictions you won’t want to miss.
