Squirrel hunting season changes depending on where you live, but in most places, you can hunt from early fall through late winter. Always check your state wildlife agency for the exact season dates and bag limits before you head out.
If you’re hoping for a good hunt, here’s what you should know about season rules, the usual start and end times, and how to pick the best days to be out. You’ll also get tips on licenses, legal weapons, and where to find the latest regulations to keep things legal and smooth.
Key Information About Squirrel Hunting Season
You need to know when you can hunt, what kind of gear and weapons are allowed, how many squirrels you can take, and what license to carry. These details decide if your hunt stays legal and safe.
Typical Season Dates Nationwide
Most squirrel hunting seasons land in the cooler months when squirrels get more active and leaves start to drop. A lot of states open up in August or September and keep the season running through January, February, or sometimes even March.
For example, southern states might open mid‑September and continue into March. In the Midwest, seasons usually start in early September and end by late January.
Some states split the season into early fall and late winter segments. Watch for special youth or gun‑only days that pop up on state calendars.
Always check the specific calendar for your county or hunting zone. Some states break things down by north/south or region.
State and Local Regulations
Every state sets its own squirrel hunting rules. They decide on season dates, which weapons you can use, and if any areas are off-limits, like wildlife refuges or private land.
Local city or county laws can add more restrictions. For example, some places ban shooting within a certain distance of buildings.
If you hunt on private land, you need the landowner’s okay. Crossing state lines for a longer season? Make sure you follow that state’s laws and carry the right license.
Before you go, visit your state’s fish and wildlife website for the latest official rules.
Bag Limits and Legal Requirements
Bag limits say how many squirrels you can take each day or season. Most states let you take between 5 and 12 squirrels per day, depending on the state and squirrel species.
Some states set a total for the whole season instead of a daily number.
States also decide what weapons you can use. Usually, .22 rimfire rifles, shotguns, and legal air rifles are good to go, but some places limit caliber, shot size, or ban night hunting.
Make sure you can tell the difference between squirrel species. Gray and fox squirrels are usually fair game, but others might be protected.
A few states want you to tag or report your harvest, so double-check before you pull the trigger.
Required Licenses for Squirrel Hunters
Most states ask you to buy a small game or hunting license if you want to hunt squirrels. The kind of license you need depends on whether you’re a resident, a nonresident, or your age.
Youth licenses might cost less or even be free under some programs.
Buy your license online or at approved shops and keep it with you when you hunt. Some places also want you to have a habitat stamp, harvest permit, or a special small game tag.
If you’re hunting on federal land, see if you need another permit. Always carry proof that you have permission on private land, along with your license.
For the latest season dates, bag limits, and license info, check your state wildlife agency’s official website before each hunt.
Planning Your Squirrel Hunt
Pick trees that dropped a lot of nuts, plan your hunt around dawn or late afternoon, and bring a small-caliber rifle or a shotgun with birdshot. Know which squirrel species live in your area and always follow the law and safe hunting habits.
Common Squirrel Species for Hunters
You’ll usually hunt two main types: fox squirrels (Sciurus niger) and gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis). Fox squirrels are bigger and like open woodlots and farm edges.
Gray squirrels stick to mixed hardwoods, oaks, and even neighborhoods with old trees.
Choose your gear based on the species. For fox squirrels, a .22 or a light centerfire rifle gives you a clean shot from farther away.
For gray squirrels, a .22 or a shotgun with #6–#7.5 shot works best in thicker woods.
Learn to spot differences in coat color and size. That way, you won’t accidentally take a protected species.
Scout for active trees like oak, hickory, walnut, and beech—those draw squirrels in. Watch for travel routes, dreys, and feeding spots during the day.
Mark these locations on a map so you don’t end up wandering aimlessly.
Best Time of Day to Hunt Squirrels
Squirrels get most active right after sunrise and again in the late afternoon. If you hunt during the first two hours after dawn or the last hour before dusk, you’ll have the best luck.
Those times line up with when squirrels leave their nests to feed.
Try to get to your spot before sunrise and sit quietly near a nut tree or along a ridge. Use binoculars to scan the branches and keep an eye out for movement.
Cool, calm weather gets squirrels moving. If it’s windy or raining hard, they usually stay hidden.
Depending on where you are, gray squirrels in the South might stay active longer during the day. In thicker woods, patience pays off—short, careful stalks work better than long walks that scare off game.
Ethical and Responsible Harvest Practices
Before you head out, make sure you know the local squirrel hunting seasons and bag limits. Always carry your hunting license, and double-check the rules for legal weapons and required orange—especially if other hunting seasons might overlap.
Respect private property. Seriously, always get permission before you set foot anywhere.
Take a shot only when you have a clear, ethical chance for a quick kill. You’ll want to use the right ammo: small-caliber rifle rounds or small birdshot for shotguns work best.
If you wound an animal, track it down and retrieve it. Field-dress your game right away so the meat stays fresh.
Handle your harvested squirrels with care and keep things clean. Store the meat in a game bag or cooler to keep it cool.
If your state asks you to report your harvests, go ahead and do it. And of course, always handle your firearm safely—using a shooting rest or even a sturdy branch helps you stay accurate.
