If you want to get the most out of squirrel hunting in Missouri, you’ve got to plan around the official season dates. Missouri’s squirrel season usually stretches from late May all the way through mid-February, so you’ll have plenty of time to get out there after gray and fox squirrels.
Before you hit the woods, make sure you know the dates, bag limits, and what gear’s allowed. This article covers the season windows, gear you can use, and some practical, ethical tips to help you have a good time and stay on the right side of the law.
Official Missouri Squirrel Season Dates and Regulations
You can hunt eastern gray and fox squirrels during certain dates, but you’ll need to follow rules for methods, limits, and permits. The Missouri Department of Conservation sets and enforces these rules to keep things fair and safe.
Start and End Dates for Squirrel Hunting in Missouri
Missouri usually opens squirrel season in late May and keeps it going until mid-February. For the 2025–2026 season, the Department of Conservation lists the season as May 24 (or May 25 in some announcements) through February 15, 2026.
Always double-check the MDC website for any updates or last-minute changes before you head out. All parts of the state follow these dates for both eastern gray and fox squirrels.
Sometimes, closures or changes pop up under the Missouri Wildlife Code, so it pays to confirm before you travel. If you own private land, you still need to follow these dates unless Missouri law says otherwise.
Permitted Hunting Methods: Firearms, Archery, and More
Missouri lets you use a bunch of different legal methods for squirrels. You can hunt with shotguns (with small shot), rifles (.22 rimfire or smaller during certain deer seasons), pistols, bows (longbow, recurve, compound), slingshots, atlatls, and crossbows where those count as firearms.
You can use hand-held string releasing devices and illuminated sights for bows too. But you can’t use arrows with drugs, poisons, or explosives. Using vehicles to hunt or drive wildlife isn’t allowed either.
Artificial lights only work for certain species, not squirrels. The rules also say you can’t have night vision or thermal devices if you’re carrying a weapon for hunting.
Legal Bag Limits and Possession Limits
Missouri sets bag and possession limits to keep squirrel populations healthy. Always check the current MDC regulations for the exact numbers before you hunt.
Usually, both eastern gray and fox squirrels share the same limits, unless the code says otherwise. The possession limit means the total number you can legally have on you, in your car, or at camp.
If you’re out for a few days or plan to store squirrels, keep your game separated and recorded as required. Breaking these limits can land you fines or cost you your hunting privileges, so it’s just not worth the risk.
Small Game Hunting Permit and License Requirements
You’ll need the right licenses to hunt squirrels in Missouri. Most hunters have to carry a valid Missouri hunting license.
Some small game seasons need a small game hunting permit or stamp, depending on your residency and how or what you’re hunting. Youth, seniors, or landowners sometimes get different rules.
Always bring your conservation ID and any needed permits with you. For all the latest info or to buy permits, check the Missouri Department of Conservation’s official site, like the MDC’s announcement of season dates.
Allowed Equipment, Best Practices, and Ethical Considerations
Bring gear that’s legal, safe, and actually works for small game. Stick with Missouri’s rules, and always aim for quick, humane kills.
Firearms and Ammunition: Rifles, Pistols, and Revolvers
For squirrels, go with small-caliber rimfire rifles (.22 LR) or pistols and revolvers in .22 caliber or smaller. These give you good accuracy at typical squirrel distances—maybe 10 to 75 yards—and won’t mess up the pelt too much.
During certain deer or elk firearm seasons, you’re limited to shotguns with shot no bigger than No. 4 or .22 rimfires for other hunting. Always check the current season rules before you head out.
Short, accurate barrels and low-power scopes help you spot squirrels in the trees faster. Keep your ammo handy in a belt pouch, and always check what’s behind your target—squirrels love to perch over roads, yards, or even water. If you’re hunting during deer season or in low light, wear hunter orange.
Archery Options: Longbows, Compound Bows, and Crossbows
Archery’s a solid choice if you’re shooting inside 20–40 yards. Use small-game broadheads or sharp field points for fast, humane kills and less pelt damage.
Compound bows let you hold at full draw longer, and they’re usually more accurate. Longbows are simpler and quieter, if that’s your thing. Crossbows offer repeatable accuracy with less effort, and Missouri allows them for small game in many spots—just check for any season-specific rules.
Tune your arrows for straight flight and practice three-arrow groups at hunting distances. Lighter, faster arrows cut down on wind drift and help with penetration. Bring a sharp knife for field dressing, and try to make clean exits to save the pelt.
Alternative Methods: Slingshots, Atlatls, and Cage Traps
Slingshots and atlatls are legal for small game in some places, but they take real skill for a clean, humane shot. Aim for the head or neck for a quick kill.
Practice from both sitting and standing positions, since you’ll be shooting at all sorts of angles. Atlatls pack more punch for heavy darts, but honestly, not many hunters use them these days.
If you’ve got nuisance squirrels on private land, cage traps are an option year-round, as long as you follow local rules. Bait them with nuts or corn and set them near squirrel trails.
Check your traps often, and only relocate or dispatch animals if it’s legal. Never use poisons or illegal devices—just not worth the trouble. For all the fine print on what’s legal, check Missouri’s hunting rules.
Ethical and Responsible Squirrel Hunting
Aim for quick, humane kills. Don’t waste meat if you can help it.
Take shots you know you can make cleanly. If you wound an animal, you’ve got to track it down and finish the job—don’t just leave it behind.
Respect landowners. Pay attention to posted signs.
Stick to bag limits and follow season dates. Label what you’re transporting so you stay within the rules.
Wear your safety gear. Talk to other hunters out there—nobody likes surprises in the woods.
When you field dress, use clean cuts. If you want to keep the pelt, take care to preserve it.
Honestly, a bit of practice and self-reflection can make you a much safer, more ethical hunter.
