You can hunt squirrels in Arkansas from May 15 through February 28. The daily bag limit is 12, and you can possess up to 48 squirrels at a time.
With such a long season, you get plenty of chances—spring, summer, fall, and winter. Pick your outings based on nut crops and, honestly, the weather you like best.
If you want to make the most of your time in the woods, this guide will walk you through exact season dates, key rules, and practical tips for finding gray and fox squirrels.
You’ll get clear info on bag limits, allowed firearms, and when using dogs or shotguns makes the most sense.
You’ll also find quick hunting tips, notes on popular squirrel species, and a peek at some Arkansas squirrel hunting traditions.
Arkansas Squirrel Season Dates and Key Regulations
The season runs long, so you can harvest a good number of squirrels if you stick to the limits and weapon rules.
You need to know the exact dates, how many you can take each day, and what license and gear you’ll need.
Season Opening and Closing Dates
Arkansas squirrel season opens on May 15 and runs through February 28 the following year.
For 2025–26, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission lists May 15, 2025–Feb. 28, 2026. The same pattern holds for May 15, 2026–Feb. 28, 2027.
These dates are statewide, so you can hunt across most of Arkansas during that stretch.
Some WMAs or local areas might set special dates or closures. Always check area-specific rules before heading out.
Dogs are allowed for squirrel hunting under AGFC rules, so you can bring a well-trained dog to find or flush squirrels.
Daily Bag and Possession Limits
You can harvest up to 12 squirrels per person per day. The possession limit is 48 squirrels.
If you hunt several days in a row, you can legally have up to four days’ worth in your possession.
Bag and possession limits apply everywhere statewide, unless a specific area posts different rules.
Count every squirrel you take or care for. Going over the daily or possession limits could mean fines or losing hunting privileges.
Hunting License and Regulations
You need a valid Arkansas hunting license to hunt squirrels.
Nonresidents must get the appropriate nonresident small-game license.
Check the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission website for license types, fees, and any extra permits.
Weapon rules matter: rifles and handguns larger than .22 rimfire aren’t allowed for squirrel hunting unless a modern gun or alternative firearms deer, bear, or coyote season is open.
Shotguns can’t use rifled slugs or shot larger than T shot.
Follow these rules to stay legal and keep things safe. For all the details and updates, check the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission’s squirrel season page.
Hunting Tips, Popular Species, and Arkansas Squirrel Traditions
Here’s what you’ll want to know about which squirrel species to expect, how food sources affect their movement, what gear keeps you legal and comfortable, and a few local events that celebrate squirrel hunting.
Gray Squirrels and Fox Squirrels in Arkansas
You’ll mostly find gray squirrels and fox squirrels in Arkansas.
Gray squirrels like dense woods, especially oak and hickory stands. They’re smaller and pretty agile, darting through thick cover.
Fox squirrels prefer open timber, field edges, and park-like spots. They’re bigger and honestly easier to spot from a distance.
For a steady chance at a shot, try hunting oak and hickory ridges in fall for mast-fed grays.
If you’re after fox squirrels, focus on fence rows, shelterbelts, and pine-hardwood edges near farms.
Both species respond to calls, but baiting is illegal on many public lands. Check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission site for the latest rules.
Spring Squirrel Hunting and Food Sources
Spring squirrel season starts around May 15 and runs through February 28 most years.
In spring, squirrels go after new buds, young nuts, and fruits like red mulberries. You might spot them in yards or along field edges.
Hunt early mornings or late afternoons when squirrels move from feeding to cover.
Look for nut crops and mulberry trees near fields. Squirrels usually follow the same paths between food and den trees.
Try to set up downwind and near likely travel routes. And don’t forget the daily bag limits and season dates.
Essential Gear and Safety
A 20-gauge shotgun with No. 6 shot works well for spring squirrel hunting.
A lot of folks also use .22 rimfire rifles where they’re allowed.
Bring a bug suit or light camo for ticks and chiggers in the spring. Wear bright orange if local rules require it or you’re hunting near other big-game seasons.
Carry a game strap or a small game vest to keep your squirrels secure and your hands free.
Pack a small first-aid kit, water, and maybe a whistle—just in case.
Learn basic shot placement for ethical kills, and get some range practice before heading out.
Always get landowner permission if you’re on private land, and check the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission rules for weapon and bag limit regulations.
Local Events and Community Traditions
Arkansas towns love their squirrel-focused events. You’ll spot cook-offs and skinning contests that really show off the local hunting culture.
Keep an eye out for “squirrel and dumplings” dinners or those World Champion Squirrel Cook-Off style get-togethers. These gatherings pull in cooks and hunters from all over, especially when the county fair comes around or in the heart of small towns.
Groups like the Ozark Highlands Nature Center and the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt family put a lot of energy into supporting outdoor education. Sometimes, they even host hands-on demonstrations.
It’s pretty common to stumble upon informal meetups, youth hunts, or a friendly competition for the best squirrel dish. Folks highlight safe handling, swap recipes, and celebrate local foodways.
Honestly, if you bring a pot, a recipe, and a little curiosity, you’ll probably walk away with some new tips and maybe a few stories to tell.
