Ever feel like the woods go silent after the leaves fall? Squirrels seem to vanish into thin air, right?
That’s late season squirrel hunting for you. But don’t worry; those bushy-tailed bandits are still around.
This article will give you the late season squirrel hunting tips for success you need to fill your game bag when everyone else is heading home empty-handed. Let’s get started!
Late Season Squirrel Hunting Tips for Success
Late season squirrel hunting presents unique challenges. The environment changes, the squirrels’ behavior shifts, and you need to adapt your tactics.
Here’s how to do it:
Understand Squirrel Behavior in Late Season
Squirrels change their tune as the weather cools. They’re no longer as active or widespread.
Instead, they focus on conserving energy and finding reliable food sources. This means you need to know where they’re likely to be.
Focus on Food Sources
Squirrels are driven by food. In the late season, their diet shifts.
Nuts are their primary source of energy to survive the winter.
- Hickory Nuts: A favorite of squirrels. Look for hickory trees.
- Acorns: Another staple. White oak acorns are preferred.
- Beechnuts: If you have beech trees, check them out.
Find these trees, and you’ll find squirrels.
Hunting During Peak Activity Times
Squirrels are most active during the warmer parts of the day. This is especially true in late season.
Focus your hunting efforts from late morning to mid-afternoon.
This gives squirrels time to warm up and start foraging.
Adapt Your Hunting Strategy
The “run-and-gun” style of early season hunting might not work as well now.
Try these approaches:
- Still Hunting: Move slowly and deliberately through the woods, pausing frequently to scan for movement.
- Stalking: Spot a squirrel, then carefully approach it, using cover to conceal your movements.
- Sitting and Waiting: Find a good spot near a food source and wait patiently for squirrels to appear.
Camouflage is Key
With fewer leaves on the trees, squirrels can spot you more easily.
Wear camouflage that blends in with the late-season environment.
This includes your clothing, hat, and gloves.
Use the Right Firearm
The best firearm for late season squirrel hunting depends on your personal preference and the terrain.
- .22 Rifle: Accurate and effective for longer shots.
- Shotgun: Good for close-range shots and moving targets.
- Air Rifle: A quieter option, ideal for hunting in populated areas (where legal).
Practice Your Shooting
Late season squirrels can be wary and quick.
Make sure you’re proficient with your chosen firearm.
Practice shooting from different positions and distances.
Utilize Squirrel Calls
Squirrel calls can be effective in attracting squirrels, especially during the late season.
- Barking Squirrel Call: Mimics the sound of a squirrel barking, which can attract other squirrels to investigate.
- Distress Call: Imitates the sound of a squirrel in distress, which can draw in predators and other squirrels.
- Nut Cracking Sounds: Simulates the sound of squirrels feeding, enticing them to come closer.
Pay Attention to the Weather
Weather plays a big role in squirrel activity.
- Cold Weather: Squirrels tend to be less active.
- Sunny Days: Squirrels are more likely to be out foraging.
- Windy Days: Squirrels may stay hidden to avoid falling branches.
Adjust your hunting strategy based on the weather conditions.
Hunt Near Water Sources
Even in the late season, squirrels need water.
If there’s a creek, stream, or pond in your hunting area, focus your efforts there.
Squirrels will often visit these areas to drink.
Look for Squirrel Nests
Squirrel nests, also known as dreys, are usually located high in trees.
Finding a nest can indicate a concentration of squirrels in the area.
However, avoid shooting directly at nests, as this can be considered unethical and may be illegal.
Be Patient and Persistent
Late season squirrel hunting can be challenging.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see squirrels right away.
Be patient, persistent, and keep trying different tactics until you find what works.
Respect the Land
Always respect the land you’re hunting on.
- Follow all hunting regulations.
- Obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property.
- Pack out all trash and leave the area as you found it.
Safety First
Safety should always be your top priority when hunting.
- Wear hunter orange to increase your visibility to other hunters.
- Be aware of your surroundings and identify your target before shooting.
- Never shoot in the direction of other people, buildings, or livestock.
Stay Quiet and Observant
Squirrels have excellent hearing and eyesight.
Minimize noise and movement while hunting.
Pay attention to your surroundings and look for any signs of squirrel activity.
Use Binoculars
Binoculars can help you spot squirrels in the distance, especially in areas with dense cover.
Choose a pair of binoculars with good magnification and light-gathering ability.
Check for Tracks and Sign
Look for squirrel tracks in the snow or mud.
Also, check for gnawed nuts, droppings, and other signs of squirrel activity.
These clues can help you locate areas where squirrels are feeding and traveling.
Vary Your Hunting Locations
Don’t stick to the same hunting spot every time.
Squirrels can become wary of areas that are frequently hunted.
Try exploring different areas within your hunting property to find new squirrel concentrations.
Bring a Hunting Dog
A well-trained hunting dog can be a valuable asset for squirrel hunting.
Dogs can help you locate squirrels, flush them out of hiding, and retrieve harvested squirrels.
Clean and Maintain Your Firearm
After each hunting trip, clean and maintain your firearm to ensure it’s in good working condition.
This will help prevent malfunctions and ensure your firearm is accurate and reliable.
Consider Using a Tree Stand
A tree stand can give you a better vantage point for spotting squirrels.
It can also help you stay hidden from squirrels on the ground.
Be sure to use a safety harness when hunting from a tree stand.
Scout Before You Hunt
Before you head out for a hunt, take some time to scout your hunting area.
Look for signs of squirrel activity and identify potential hunting spots.
This will help you plan your hunt and increase your chances of success.
Practice Ethical Hunting
Always practice ethical hunting principles.
- Take only what you need.
- Avoid shooting squirrels that are too young or too small.
- Make clean, ethical shots to ensure a quick and humane kill.
Conclusion
Late season squirrel hunting can be a rewarding experience with the right knowledge and approach. Focus on food sources, adapt your hunting strategy, and be patient. Remember to prioritize safety and respect the land.
Do you have any late-season squirrel hunting tips you’d like to share? What’s worked for you in the past? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time of day to hunt squirrels in the late season?
The best time to hunt squirrels in the late season is typically from late morning to mid-afternoon. This is when squirrels are most active, as they emerge to forage for food during the warmer parts of the day.
2. What should I wear when hunting squirrels in the late season?
Wear camouflage clothing that blends in with the late-season environment. This includes your jacket, pants, hat, and gloves. Also, consider wearing hunter orange to increase your visibility to other hunters.
3. Are squirrel calls effective in the late season?
Yes, squirrel calls can be effective in the late season. Use calls that mimic the sounds of squirrels barking, feeding, or in distress to attract them to your location.
