You can hunt squirrels in Louisiana until February 28, 2026, for this current season. If you’re heading out for the last weekend, make sure you’ve got a basic hunting license and any WMA access permit you’ll need for the land you plan to use.
It’s smart to keep a quick checklist: double-check zone dates, look up WMA rules, and pack simple gear for chilly weather. The next parts break down the exact season dates, license and access rules, and a few tips so you can wrap up the season safely and legally.
Louisiana Squirrel Season Dates and Key Regulations
You’ll need to know the right dates, permit rules, and limits if you want to plan your trips and stay legal. Take a look at the short rules below before you head out to hunt squirrels in Louisiana.
2025-2026 Squirrel Season End Dates
Louisiana’s squirrel season opens on October 4, 2025, and ends February 28, 2026. These dates work across all zones unless a special WMA or federal land posts different rules.
If you’re 18 or older, you must carry a basic hunting license to hunt squirrels. Some Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) ask for a separate WMA access permit and require check-in and check-out.
Always check your planned WMA’s page before you go. For the official dates and WMA listings, check the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announcement at the LDWF news page.
Spring Squirrel Season Information
Spring squirrel season is pretty limited and doesn’t run everywhere. Some federal lands, like Kisatchie National Forest, and certain WMAs close spring seasons entirely.
Where spring season is open, the dates can change by area and sometimes only cover a few weeks in late September or October for special zones. Confirm spring dates for the exact area you want to hunt.
WMAs post their own schedules and restrictions. If a WMA says spring season is closed, don’t hunt there during that time.
Bag Limits and Possession Limits
Daily bag limits for squirrels help protect the population. You can take only a set number of squirrels per day—be sure to check the current LDWF regulations pamphlet for the exact count for 2025-2026 before you go out.
Possession limits usually work out to a multiple of the daily limit, just in case your trip spans a few days. Always carry proof of your license and any permits while hunting.
Violating bag or possession limits can lead to fines or loss of hunting privileges. For the precise numbers and any zone exceptions, check the LDWF hunting regulations PDF.
Licensing, Public Land Access, and Responsible Hunting
You’ll need the right license to hunt small game. Make sure you follow public land rules and basic ethics.
First, figure out what license or permit you’ll need and whether your chosen WMA asks for a separate access permit.
Hunting License Requirements
You must carry a valid Louisiana hunting license to hunt squirrels. If you’re 18 or older, grab a basic hunting license; hunters 17 and under can hunt squirrels without a youth license for that species.
Seniors can use a Senior Hunting/Fishing License instead of a basic license if they qualify. The Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License and the Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License cover small-game hunting and might allow WMA access without a separate permit—but check the license details before you go.
Buy and print or save your license on your phone before you travel. Keep it with you while hunting and be ready to show it to LDWF officers.
Visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website to buy or confirm which license fits your situation and age.
Hunting on LDWF WMAs and Permits
A lot of public lands managed by LDWF require a WMA access permit alongside your hunting license. For example, some WMAs like Sherburne WMA have check-in/out rules and specific season dates for small game.
If you want to hunt on LDWF WMA lands, get a WMA access permit ahead of time and learn the check-in process for that area. Different WMAs have their own rules—some close spring squirrel seasons on certain federal lands, while others allow fall and winter hunting.
Always review the WMA-specific pages on the LDWF site for maps, permitted methods, and daily check-in requirements. Bring any required permit numbers and follow posted access restrictions to avoid fines.
Ethical Hunting Guidelines
As a hunter, you need to act safely, legally, and ethically out there. Choose the right firearms or archery gear, and only take shots you know you can make.
Stick to bag limits and pay attention to season dates. Always field-dress and transport your game the way LDWF rules say to.
Take care of the land—pack out your trash and try not to disturb other people who aren’t hunting. Follow WMA rules for parking and road use.
If you hunt with dogs, make sure you keep them under control and up-to-date on their vaccinations. Not sure about small-game programs or best practices? Check out LDWF’s small game materials, or talk to someone from the LDWF small game or wild turkey program.
