Squirrel season dates really depend on your state and the species you’re after. Usually, you’ll see seasons kick off somewhere between late summer and early fall.
You should always check your state wildlife agency for the exact start dates and species rules—don’t want to get caught out hunting early.
If you hunt, this article can help you figure out the main season windows. I’ll also go over how dates change by state and species, plus the basics for licenses and gear.
Let’s get into it so you can plan the best time to head out and stay on the right side of the law.
Squirrel Season Start Dates by State and Species
Squirrel season start dates shift depending on your state and the squirrel species. You’ll need to check your local wildlife agency for the exact opening days, bag limits, and which weapons you can use.
Regional Variations in Squirrel Hunting Season
Season dates for squirrel hunting really bounce around by region. In the South—think Alabama—seasons usually open up in mid-August to mid-September and can run all the way into February or March.
Up North, you’ll see seasons start in September and close earlier in winter, mostly because the weather just gets rough. Texas is a whole different animal: some western zones let you hunt year-round, while eastern zones stick to set dates. You’ll want to check the Texas Parks & Wildlife site (Squirrel — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department) for the details.
States have different bag limits and weapon rules too. Some let you use small calibers, air rifles, or bows, but others put restrictions on gauges or certain methods. Even county-level rules can mess with your plans.
Double-check season start dates and any local quirks on your state wildlife pages before you load up the truck.
Importance of Squirrel Season Start Date
Knowing the exact start date for squirrel season keeps you legal—and honestly, it helps you hunt smarter. If you head out before the official opener, you could get fined or even lose your hunting privileges. Nobody wants that.
Mark the date on your calendar and double-check each year with your local wildlife agency. Sometimes things change last minute.
Start dates also change how your hunt feels. Early in the season, there are more leaves and squirrels seem busier up in the canopy. Later in the season, spotting squirrels gets easier when the leaves drop, but the cold slows down their movement.
Match your gear and timing to the species and the local start date for the best shot at success.
Gray Squirrel vs. Fox Squirrel Season Differences
Gray squirrel and fox squirrel seasons often overlap, but not always. In a lot of eastern and Midwestern states, both species fall under the same small-game season with shared bag limits.
Some states, though, list them separately or set different quotas. It really depends.
Figure out which species live where you hunt. Gray squirrels usually like thick hardwood stands and get moving early in the morning. Fox squirrels prefer open woodlots and might be active a bit later in the day.
Check your state agency for any species-specific rules or notes about the local populations. That way, you’ll be sure you’re following the right season dates and limits.
Requirements and Preparation for Squirrel Hunting
You’ll need the right paperwork, safety training, and gear before you go. Make sure you know the license rules where you hunt, take any required hunter education, and pick the right firearm or bow for safe, ethical shots.
Hunting License and Small Game Permit Information
Look up your state wildlife agency for the license types and fees. Most states want you to have a general hunting license and a small game permit or endorsement if you’re after tree squirrels.
Age rules can be all over the place—some states let really young kids hunt without a license, but others require one at 12 or older.
Buy your license online or at an approved vendor before you hunt. Always carry your physical or electronic license in the field.
Pay attention to bag and possession limits. Most states set daily limits (usually 5–12) and short possession limits. Some places have separate rules for red and gray/fox squirrels.
Jot down your license numbers and expiration dates in a notebook or just snap a photo with your phone. Keep your receipts with your hunting log for legal proof—it’s a good habit.
Hunter Education Course and Safety Considerations
If you’re new or your state says so, complete a certified hunter education course. These courses teach firearm safety, how to pick your shots, legal responsibilities, and how to recover game ethically.
Some states waive the education requirement for hunters born before a certain year. Always double-check your state’s rules.
Wear hunter orange if your state requires it. Follow basic gun safety: treat every gun as loaded, keep the muzzle pointed safely, and always know what’s behind your target.
Practice at the range so you can make quick, clean shots on small targets. Keep a squirrel hunting log book—note the weather, location, shots taken, and gear you used. It helps you get better and keeps your records straight.
Permitted Hunting Methods: Rifles, Shotguns, and Bows
First off, check which weapons your state actually allows for squirrel hunting. Most places let you use .22 rimfire rifles—they’re quiet and pretty accurate, so they’re a favorite for a reason.
Shotguns with small shot sizes, like #6, work well early in the season, especially when squirrels are darting around in the trees. Some folks prefer bows or crossbows for small game, but that depends on local laws. You’ll want to look up the rules for draw weight and what kinds of arrows or points are okay.
Certain public lands don’t let you use rifles, so you might have to stick with a shotgun or bow there. Handguns and centerfire rifles? Those usually get restricted in more populated areas, mostly for safety reasons.
Pick ammo that won’t over-penetrate and ruin the meat. Nobody wants that. Try shooting from both standing and seated positions, since that’s what you’ll face out in the field.
Jot down your effective ranges in a log. That way, you know your limits and only take shots you’re confident you can make cleanly.
