You can hunt squirrels in most Texas counties starting in early September and going through late winter. Exact dates and limits depend on your county, so check those before you grab your gear. Some places let you hunt all year, but others only allow it during certain months.
This post breaks down squirrel season dates in different zones, explains how the seasons work, and highlights the rules that matter so you stay on the right side of the law. I’ll toss in some tips on gear and tactics too—stuff that actually makes a difference out there.
When Is Squirrel Season and How Does It Work?
Squirrel season usually covers several months, and the rules spell out what you can take and when. Before you head out, you need to know the dates, which species you can hunt, and the bag limits.
Typical Squirrel Hunting Season Dates
Most states open squirrel season in late spring or early fall and keep it going through winter. For instance, Arkansas has a season from May 15 through February 28 for the 2025–26 period, covering both gray and fox squirrels. In some areas, you can even hunt with dogs (see Arkansas dates).
Seasons often start in May or September and last several months. That gives hunters plenty of opportunity, but avoids peak nesting and breeding times.
Check your state’s start and end dates before you hunt. Wildlife agencies post calendars every year that line up with their management goals. Sometimes the season splits into early and late parts to protect young squirrels when they’re most vulnerable.
How Season Dates Vary by State
State wildlife agencies decide season dates based on local squirrel numbers and habitat. Southern states usually set longer seasons since breeding and food supplies differ from up north.
Missouri and Texas each have their own rules about weapons and timing, shaped by their local environment. You’ll notice differences in what hunting methods states allow, too.
Some states only let you use .22 rimfire rifles or smaller, while others have shot size limits. Always check your state’s hunting regulations and make sure your small game license is valid before going out.
Bag Limits and Why They Matter
Bag limits tell you how many squirrels you can take each day and how many you can keep in total. Most states set daily limits between 6 and 12, with possession limits being a few times the daily max. Arkansas, for example, allows 12 per day and up to 48 in possession for 2025–26 (see Arkansas dates).
Bag limits help protect both gray and fox squirrels and keep populations healthy long-term. If you stick to the limits, you help prevent overharvest and make sure there’ll be squirrels to hunt in the future.
Count both species toward your daily limit, and always carry your license in case a warden asks.
Squirrel Hunting Tips, Legal Gear, and Best Practices
Quiet movement, the right gear, and knowing the local rules really matter. Pick spots with lots of trees, especially those with acorns or hickory nuts. Hunt at dawn or dusk when squirrels get most active.
Popular Hunting Methods and Techniques
Still-hunting works well if you move slowly through oak or hickory stands. Stop every few yards, scan the trees with binoculars, and watch for movement on trunks and branches. Sometimes a soft squirrel call or just rustling leaves will pull a curious squirrel into view.
Stand hunting from a low branch or a blind near feeding trees can give you good, steady shots. Sit quietly, keep your profile low, and focus on nut-bearing trees.
If you’re edge-hunting, follow hedgerows where ground squirrels and fox squirrels move between cover. When stalking, use short, slow steps and aim for a quick, ethical shot to the head or chest. Practice with your rifle, shotgun, or bow at 25–50 yards.
A small game bag and a folding saw come in handy if you need to climb or clear a shooting lane.
Permitted Firearms and Bows
Most states let you use .22 rifles, shotguns, and air rifles for squirrels. A .22 LR rifle gives you accurate, low-damage shots out to 50–100 yards. For close range, a 20–28 gauge shotgun with birdshot does the trick under 40 yards. Always check your state’s rules on caliber or shot size before you pack up.
Bows and crossbows are legal in a lot of areas. Use a light-arrow setup for tree shots and practice steady holds from a seated position. Double-check if archery seasons differ from firearm seasons, and see if you need to wear hunter orange on certain dates.
Binoculars and a safe gun case make life easier. Keep your ammo and arrows secure, and bring hearing and eye protection when you practice. Make sure your gear matches local rules and the species you’re after—that’s just part of hunting responsibly.
Common Squirrel Species for Hunters
Eastern gray and eastern fox squirrels hang out in hardwood forests and near farms. They love munching on acorns and hickory nuts.
In the fall, you’ll often spot these squirrels feeding on the ground. That makes them easier targets, especially at dawn and dusk.
Try to notice their tail shape and size when they’re 30–60 yards away. It’s not always easy, but practice helps.
Red squirrels stick to coniferous or mixed woods and usually stay higher up in the trees. They’re smaller, move faster, and honestly, they can be a real challenge to track.
If you want a shot at a red squirrel, you’ll need quick reflexes and pretty precise aim. Ground squirrels, on the other hand, show up in open fields and along brush edges.
Hunting ground squirrels takes patience and a careful approach. They spook easily, so slow and steady wins here.
Always identify the species before you shoot. That way, you’ll stay within size or bag limits.
Check out local guides or your wildlife agency’s website for season dates and which species you can hunt. If you want more on scouting trees and finding food sources, take a look at this practical guide to squirrel hunting tips and tactics: https://www.outdoorlife.com/story/hunting/the-ultimate-guide-to-hunting-squirrels/.
