Squirrel season kicks off across Pennsylvania on September 13 and runs through November 28. After that, it reopens from December 15–24 and again from December 26 through February 28, 2026. You’re allowed to harvest up to six squirrels a day (with an 18-squirrel possession limit) during the regular season. Special junior seasons pop up on select early dates, too.
So, it’s time to start planning your trips, brush up on the rules, and maybe check your gear before those prime squirrel days arrive. Below, you’ll find the exact dates, bag limits, and some practical hunting tips to help you stay legal—and hopefully fill your game pouch.
Squirrel Season Dates and Regulations
You can hunt squirrels during specific windows each year, but you need to follow the limits and rules set by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The dates, split seasons, and junior hunt times decide when you can head into the woods and how many squirrels you’re allowed to take.
Official Start and End Dates
Pennsylvania’s main squirrel season opens in mid-September and runs through late November. After a short break, you get another shot in mid-December and again in late December through February. The Pennsylvania Game Commission sets these dates, and they might shift a bit from year to year.
Always check the PGC calendar for the exact dates before you head out. For example, recent years started the season in early or mid-September, with a late-season stretch into February. Double-check your Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) for any zone-specific changes.
Split Season and Junior Hunt Details
Pennsylvania sets up split seasons and junior hunts to give younger hunters extra opportunities. The split season usually means there’s a fall segment (September–November) and a separate winter segment (December–February). Sometimes, the Game Commission opens a special early season just for eligible junior hunters—usually a brief window in mid-September.
Junior hunt rules let kids hunt with or without a regular license, if they meet age and mentoring requirements. If you’re planning to hunt during a junior period, make sure you check the eligibility dates and whether a mentor needs to be with you. The PGC posts these details every year on its site and in the annual regulations.
Bag Limits and Legal Requirements
You can take up to six squirrels per day in Pennsylvania, with an 18-squirrel possession limit in most seasons. These limits count for all the common species—red, gray, black, and fox—unless the PGC says otherwise. Your possession limit is the total you can legally have at one time, including what you’ve already stored.
You’ll need a valid Pennsylvania small game license and have to follow any WMU-specific rules. Stick to the bag limits and the right season dates. Before you hunt, check the official PGC regulations on the Pennsylvania Game Commission website (pgc.pa.gov) to avoid any surprises or last-minute changes.
How to Hunt Squirrel in Pennsylvania
You’ll want to scout for nut and mast trees, use quiet gear, and bring a healthy dose of patience. Still-hunting, reed calling, hunting with dogs, or even falconry all work, depending on your style and the season.
Finding Prime Squirrel Habitats
Look for forests full of beech, hickory, shagbark, and white oak. These trees drop acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts—squirrel favorites—especially in fall and early winter. Watch for nut drops, fresh chew marks, and well-worn travel routes between trees.
Edge habitats are usually best. Woods with scattered mature trees, old fence lines, and clearings let you spot movement more easily. Search near standing dead trees and den holes for daytime activity. In spring, follow oak catkins and buds; in fall, hit the mast-heavy areas right after the first hard frost.
Move slowly and scan from 10–30 yards away. If you hear barking or scolding, just stop and listen. Hunting pressure can push squirrels into thicker cover, so dawn and late afternoon are usually your best bets.
Best Hunting Techniques and Gear
A quiet .22 rifle or 20‑gauge shotgun works great for small game. If you can use a suppressed .22, you’ll make less noise and spook fewer squirrels—just make sure it’s legal where you hunt. Bring quality optics and maybe a folding stool so you can sit still without getting too sore.
Try still-hunting along trails and under mast trees. Pair that with a reed call to mimic squirrel chatter and pull them in close. Wear camo or earth tones, and go for soft-soled boots to keep things quiet. Some folks love hunting with a well-trained dog, or even with a falcon, if you’ve got the permits and the know-how.
If you want to trap, make sure you’ve got the proper furtaker permits and you’re following trapping seasons. Take quick, careful shots to avoid ruining the meat. Practicing with your .22LR at 15–40 yards will help you make clean shots in the field.
Pennsylvania Hunting License and Permits
You have to carry a valid Pennsylvania hunting license. Junior hunters might have slightly different requirements or dates, so check in with the Pennsylvania Game Commission for the latest info. Some hunts or areas need extra permits, especially for mentored youth or special hunts.
Stick to the daily and possession bag limits for small game. If you’re planning on trapping, you’ll need a furtaker license and maybe cable restraint certification. Falconry takes state and federal permits, plus marked equipment for your bird.
Before you head out, double-check the season dates and WMU rules. The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website has the latest on seasons, bag limits, and Sunday hunting, so it’s worth a look—especially if you’re hunting near any season changes.
Squirrel Preparation and Cooking Tips
Field-dress squirrels right after you harvest them. Pull out the entrails and rinse the cavity with cold water.
If you want cleaner meat, go ahead and skin the squirrel. Trim off any extra fat and those odd-smelling glands before you start cooking.
You might want to try classic recipes like pan-fried squirrel, or maybe a sherried squirrel stew if you’re feeling adventurous. Brown the meat first; then toss in a splash of dry sherry to pick up all the good flavors.
For older, tougher squirrels, slow braising with root veggies works wonders. Squirrel actually goes great with bacon, onions, and a little vinegar or sherry—who knew?
Keep the meat cold and use it within a few days, or just freeze it in meal-sized packs. Remember to label each package with the date and species.
If you end up with more animals from smoking or trapping, store them separately and label everything clearly. That way, you won’t end up with any weird mix-ups later.
