You probably want to know the exact end date before heading out for that last hunt. Most squirrel seasons wrap up sometime between late January and early March, but the dates and rules shift depending on your state, the species, and even local zones.
Check your state agency for the specific closing day and any county or zone exceptions. You don’t want to risk a fine or miss out because of a surprise closure.
Look up bag limits, allowed methods, and any zone-specific rules before you make plans.
This post covers the usual end-date ranges, highlights where dates vary the most, and points you to official sources so you can double-check the rules for your area.
When Squirrel Season Ends Across the US
Squirrel seasons end at different times across the country. State rules, population goals, and local climate all play a part.
You’ll usually see seasons closing in late winter or early spring. State DNRs set daily bag limits and weapon rules.
Typical Season End Dates by State
Many states end squirrel season in February or March. Alabama often runs into early March, while Ohio usually shuts down by the end of January.
Texas is a bit all over the place—some regions close late in winter, while a few rural counties allow year-round hunting. Always check the Texas Parks & Wildlife regs for your area.
States like Michigan and Pennsylvania sometimes list March end dates, but they might split the season by zone or add special youth-only hunts. Daily bag limits usually fall between 5 and 12 squirrels.
You’ll need a small game license if your state requires it. Watch for special youth season dates from your state wildlife agency.
Factors Affecting Squirrel Hunting Season Length
Wildlife agencies decide season length based on annual population surveys, breeding cycles, and how many people are hunting. If numbers drop, your state DNR might shorten the season or lower bag limits to help the population bounce back.
Weather can play a big role too. Harsh winters mean less food and might shift closure dates, especially up north.
Human factors matter as well. Changes in land use, hunting access, or even complaints about property damage can push agencies to update the rules.
Technology and new weapon laws—like allowing more air rifles—sometimes change the way agencies set season dates or safety rules.
Regional Differences in Squirrel Season Closures
The South usually gets the longest seasons. Georgia and Alabama often open in mid-August or September and keep going into February or March.
Northern states like Michigan and Minnesota close earlier, mostly because deep winter cuts down hunting days and changes squirrel behavior.
Western states vary a lot. California and others may have regional closures or lower bag limits because of habitat fragmentation.
Live near a state line? Compare both sets of rules—sometimes you can squeeze in a few more days if you cross the border, but you have to follow each state’s season and license requirements.
Hunting Regulations and Related Game
Squirrel hunting rules cover how many you can take, what gear you can use, and where you’re allowed to hunt.
You have to follow bag limits, carry the right licenses, and check which small game seasons overlap with squirrel season.
Bag Limits and Conservation Rules
Bag limits tell you how many squirrels you can keep per day or season. Most places set daily limits around 5 to 10 squirrels, but some counties with year-round seasons don’t have a limit.
Check your county’s rules before you head out.
Conservation rules protect local populations, especially after breeding. Some areas set limits to protect juvenile animals or require you to leave females alone during certain times.
You might need to report your harvest. Wildlife agencies use this data to set future limits.
If you hunt from a vehicle or on posted land, expect extra restrictions. Breaking bag limits can mean fines, losing your license, or even getting banned from hunting.
Carry proof of the bag limit for your county or WMA just in case.
Required Hunting Licenses and Public Land Access
You’ll need a valid hunting license to hunt squirrels in most states. Licenses vary by residency, age, and species.
For small game like rabbits, quail, or grouse, a general small-game or combo license usually covers you. Youth licenses might offer earlier or special youth-only seasons.
Access rules change based on the land. Public Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) sometimes require a separate permit or daily pass, even if you already have a license.
Private land always needs written permission from the owner. Some WMAs use special tags or quota systems for certain areas.
Check online before you drive out.
Keep your license and any WMA permits with you while hunting. Law enforcement can give you a citation if you don’t have the right paperwork, even if you think you’re exempt.
Permitted Firearms and Equipment for Squirrel Hunting
Rimfire rifles (.22 LR), shotguns with birdshot, and air rifles are the go-to choices for squirrel hunting in most places. Some areas ban centerfire rifles or require shotguns in certain zones.
Double-check caliber and ammo rules for your county or WMA before packing up your gear.
Other equipment rules can trip you up. Hunting over bait is illegal in a lot of states.
Night hunting, artificial lights, and electronic calls are usually restricted. You have to follow weapon-specific safety rules too—like keeping guns unloaded in vehicles.
Planning to use dogs or hunting near neighborhoods? Make sure you know the leash and training rules.
Using non-approved optics or suppressors may need special permits or could be banned, depending on local law.
How Squirrel Season Overlaps with Other Small Game
Squirrel season usually lines up with rabbit, quail, and grouse seasons. That means you might get the chance to hunt more than one species during a single trip, as long as you’ve got the right small-game license.
Just make sure you double-check daily bag limits for each animal. No one wants to accidentally take too many.
Small game seasons don’t always start or end at the same time. One county might let you hunt squirrels all year, but only allow quail or grouse during a specific window.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) can throw another curveball. They sometimes set their own opening or closing dates, which might not match up with county rules.
If you’re chasing different small game in one outing, pick firearms and shot sizes that work for each species. And don’t forget to pay attention to area rules—some WMAs let you hunt small game but don’t allow centerfire rifles.
That restriction can really change how you go after quail or rabbits. Always check before you head out.
