Small Game Hunting: Squirrels

Squirrel hunting is one of the most common small game species for hunters. Weather you are a seasoned hunter, or looking to get a youngster into hunting, squirrel hunting takes skill, patience and even luck. Squirrel hunting can provide fast action hunting and is a good way to prepare for deer hunting. Deer and squirrels usually live in the same areas and like the same types of food, so while squirrel hunting, you can also be scouting for a deer hunting location.

Where you will find squirrels?

Squirrels can be found in many locations such as forests, woodlots, farm country, or even urban areas. Pretty much any place that you can find oak trees and acorns. Acorns are the biggest food source for a squirrel, and they will spend much of their time collecting and storing them for the long winters. You will find squirrels are more active during the early morning and evening hours.

Tactics for locating squirrels will vary depending on the season and the hunter. Some like to wait near oak trees, while others like to quietly sneak through the woods scanning the ground as well as the tree tops. Which method is right for you? The best way is to try them and find out which works best for your area. One tactic may work better in the early season compared to later on in the season.

1. Early Season hunting

The early season is the time when the leaves are still green and most of the nuts are still on the trees. With the thick cover, most hunters are going to find the best results by use of a shotgun. You may want to use a heavier load and shot to reach to the tree tops and into the leaf cover. Listen for the sounds of squirrels chewing or barking in the tree tops to locate the tree they are hiding in.

2. Mid-Season

The mid-season starts when the leaves and nuts begin to fall. This means a transition to ground hunting. This is a time when you can switch to using 22 long rifles, air rifles or if you prefer to stick with the shotgun. Check your local regulations on acceptable firearms. If you choose to use a shotgun, you should be able to switch to a lighter load and shot combination at this point due to commonly finding the animals scampering across the ground and not in the thick tree tops.

Just like the early season, stealth will be the key to your success. Don’t rush for a shot, wait until he finds his food and you will have plenty of time to line up a clean shot. Trying to hit a moving squirrel is almost impossible.

Small game hunting is a great way to keep your skills on point, prepare for other types of hunting and put food on the table.

-Adam Sites, Fall Obsession Pro Staff