Ever wonder when squirrel season actually happens in Texas? In most Texas counties, the season runs from Sept. 1, 2025, to Aug. 31, 2026. East Texas, though, has split dates: Oct. 1, 2025, to Feb. 22, 2026, and then again from May 1–31, 2026. Some counties even let you hunt squirrels year‑round with no bag limit. This guide covers the exact dates, bag limits, and those quirky exceptions so you can plan your trip without any last-minute surprises.
I’ll also break down which squirrel species live where, and share some practical tips on hunting methods that actually work. Let’s dig into the rules that matter—and a few things I wish I’d known when I started.
Squirrel Season Dates and Regulations in Texas
First, you’ll need to figure out which counties follow the East Texas two-season schedule, which ones have year‑round seasons, and what the daily and possession limits are in your area.
Texas Squirrel Hunting Zones and Seasons
Texas splits squirrel hunting into two main setups. In 51 East Texas counties, you get two short seasons: Oct. 1 through the last Sunday in February and May 1–31.
These counties manage dates to balance squirrel numbers with hunting pressure. If you want to check the official list or see if the calendar shifts, head to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department squirrel regulations page: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department squirrel regulations (season dates and counties).
For the rest of Texas, the open season runs from Sept. 1 through Aug. 31—basically year‑round. Still, always double-check your county before heading out. Youth‑only weekends in East Texas let junior hunters get started early in the fall. County-level rules can change, so it’s smart to confirm before you hunt.
Bag Limits and Possession Limits
In East Texas counties with two seasons, you can take 10 squirrels per day and possess up to 20 (that’s twice the daily limit). These numbers cover both gray and fox squirrels together.
If you’re hunting in a county with a year‑round season, you usually don’t have a bag limit. You still need to use legal hunting methods and follow safety rules.
Keep your harvest clearly labeled and separate if you’re moving between counties with different limits. When you hunt during a youth‑only weekend, the daily limit usually stays the same—unless your county says otherwise. For the full legal details, check Section 65.46 (open seasons, bag, and possession limits).
License and Hunter Education Requirements
You need a valid Texas hunting license for squirrel hunting unless you qualify for an exemption—like if you’re a youth under a certain age and hunting with an adult. Nonresidents must get the right small game license, too.
You can buy licenses online or at most sporting goods stores. If you were born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, you’ll need to show proof of hunter education to buy a license or hunt on your own. Bring your license and any required ID with you in the field. For more details, check out the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s licensing and hunter education info.
Squirrel Species, Habitats, and Effective Hunting Methods
Here’s what you need to know about which squirrels you’ll see, where they hang out, and how to hunt them without wasting your time.
Common Squirrel Species in Texas
You’ll mostly run into two tree squirrel species: the gray squirrel and the eastern fox squirrel. Gray squirrels are medium-sized, mostly gray with white bellies, and they stick to mature hardwoods.
Eastern fox squirrels are bigger, often with reddish or orange fur, and they like open, park-like woods. Ground squirrels live in parts of Texas, too, but they’re smaller and prefer prairies or scrubby spots.
It helps to know the difference—size, color, and habitat all matter when you’re deciding what to shoot. Your species choice affects your firearm, your expected shooting distance, and which rules apply.
Preferred Habitats and Feeding Patterns
Gray and fox squirrels love areas where oaks and hickories grow because they feed on acorns and hickory nuts. Look for them in bottomlands, river bottoms, and mature oak-hickory forests.
Fox squirrels handle more open woods and edges, while grays stick to thick canopies. Squirrels feed most at dawn and late afternoon, so those are your best windows.
Watch for nut piles, chewed shells, and scratch marks under trees. In spring, they’ll eat buds and insects, so check younger trees and tangled vines. Ground squirrels dig burrows in open fields and usually gather near food patches.
Best Hunting Techniques and Gear
I’ve found that still-hunting and quiet movement usually work best. Grab a shotgun—either a 20- or 12-gauge with an improved cylinder or modified choke—if you’re hunting in thick woods. If you’re after longer, more precise shots, a .22 rimfire does the trick.
Don’t forget a compact pair of binoculars. I always wear light camo and soft-soled boots since noisy steps can ruin your chances.
Try sitting or stalking near active trees, especially around dawn or late afternoon. Always pay attention to the wind; squirrels will bolt if they catch your scent.
A short tree stand or low seat can give you a better view up into the branches. If you’re after ground squirrels, find a spot at the edge of a burrow and scan the open ground. Rimfire rifles or small game shotguns get the job done here.
It really helps to practice quick follow-up shots. I aim for the head or upper chest for a clean, ethical kill.
Check local rules and season dates before heading out. For the latest regulations and county details, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s squirrel regulations page is your best bet: Texas Parks & Wildlife squirrel regulations.
