You can hunt squirrels in Missouri all the way through mid-February. Squirrel season in Missouri ends on February 15, so it’s smart to plan your trips, double-check the limits, and make sure your permits and gear are all set before heading out.
If you want to squeeze in one last hunt or start thinking about next year, you’re in the right place. Here’s what you need to know about season dates, daily and possession limits, and the gear you’re allowed to use.
I’ll toss in a few quick legal reminders too. Nobody wants a ticket for missing a rule, right?
Use these timelines and method rules to pick your best hunting days. Knowing the end date and what tools are allowed gives you more time to actually enjoy being out there.
Squirrel Season Dates and Regulations in Missouri
Missouri’s squirrel season runs from late May through mid-February. You’ll want to know the exact end date, the bag limits, and what permits or Conservation Number you’ll need.
Official Squirrel Hunting Season End Date
The season officially ends on February 15 each year. It generally opens the fourth Saturday in May, so your hunting window actually crosses over two calendar years.
Check the Missouri Department of Conservation every year for any changes. They post updates and exact dates online, which is pretty handy.
For example, in the 2025–2026 season, the opener was in late May and the closer is February 15, 2026. Always confirm your dates before you hit the woods.
Daily Bag and Possession Limits
You’re allowed up to 10 squirrels per day. The possession limit is 20, which is just double the daily limit.
If you’re moving your catch between properties, carry proof of your daily take. Don’t go over the limit, even if you hunt in more than one spot.
Both eastern gray and fox squirrels count toward these totals. So, keep track if you’re bagging both species.
Required Permits and Conservation Number
You need a valid small game hunting permit or your Conservation Number to hunt squirrels. The permit covers what methods you can use and makes sure you’re following the rules. Nonresidents have to get the right license too.
If you use a cage trap, label it with your full name and address or your Conservation Number. You can buy permits and look up your Conservation Number on the Missouri Department of Conservation’s site.
Allowed Methods and Legal Considerations
You can use common hunting firearms, archery equipment, and approved trapping methods. Watch for special rules during deer season and remember to follow labeling and possession laws when you’re moving game.
Permitted Firearms and Archery Equipment
You can hunt squirrels with shotguns, rifles, and legal archery gear. Small-bore rimfire rifles like a .22 are popular choices.
Pistols and revolvers in .22 or smaller rimfire are also legal where firearms are allowed. If you’re using a shotgun, pick shot sizes made for small game.
You can use bows, crossbows, longbows, and even slingshots if season rules allow. Shooting hours run from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, so set your alarm accordingly.
Wear hunter orange when it’s required. It’s not just a rule—it really does make you safer.
Special Rules During Firearms Deer Season
During deer firearms season, Missouri tightens up weapon limits for other wildlife. In most areas, you can only use a shotgun with shot no bigger than No. 4, or a .22 caliber or smaller rimfire rifle, pistol, or revolver for non-deer species.
These restrictions don’t apply to waterfowl hunters, trappers, landowners on their own land, or elk hunters during elk firearms season. If you’re hunting furbearers during daylight in deer season, you have to follow deer hunting methods.
Check for local exceptions and any temporary closures before you head out. Rules can change, and it’s always better to be sure.
Use of Cage-Type Traps and Other Legal Methods
You can use cage-type traps for squirrels during the open small-game season, but only if you have a valid small game permit.
State rules cover where you can place traps, and you shouldn’t use them in ways that bother dens or nests.
Don’t set traps across public roadways unless you see a specific exception.
Follow any rules about submerged sets, if they’re mentioned.
Most small game hunting comes with restrictions on artificial light, night vision, and thermal gear.
Coyotes fall under different rules, though.
There are also limits on using electronic calls and dogs.
When you transport or store your harvested game, make sure you label it properly and keep it separate from game taken by other hunters.
If you need more details or want to check specific dates, it’s best to look at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s squirrel regulations.
