Opportunities for Squirrel Hunters in Indiana
Indiana’s wooded hills, creek bottoms, and agricultural edges offer squirrel hunters a traditional and rewarding small game experience. With healthy populations of both fox squirrels and gray squirrels and a long season stretching into winter, Indiana provides plenty of chances for hunters who appreciate a quiet walk through the woods or the excitement of working with a well-trained squirrel dog, where the thrill of having killed a squirrel adds to the experience. Hunters will come to realize the joy and importance of squirrel hunting, finding personal reflection and rediscovery in each outing. Indiana is part of the Midwest, which offers diverse hunting opportunities.
Squirrel Behavior and Habitat
Fox squirrels favor hardwood forests, overgrown fence lines, and open woodlots, while gray squirrels prefer denser, mature forests with a thick canopy. Squirrels feeding often cause debris to fall to the ground, which can help hunters identify their positions. Both species are most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon, particularly during cool, crisp days in the fall.
Licensing and Seasons
Squirrel hunting in Indiana typically opens in late August and runs through the end of January. This season overlaps with deer season, providing hunters with multiple opportunities for different types of game. A valid hunting license is required for both residents and non-residents. Most hunters prefer to use either shotguns or .22 rifles for squirrel hunting, highlighting the effectiveness of these firearms for various distances and scenarios in the woods. Generous bag limits and widespread public and private land access make Indiana a top choice for small game hunters. Additionally, turkey season also overlaps with squirrel hunting season, providing even more hunting opportunities.
Best Areas for Squirrel Hunting
Hardwood Forests and Creek Bottoms
Southern Indiana’s hilly hardwoods, especially around the Hoosier National Forest and Yellowwood State Forest, provide excellent squirrel habitat where various hunting strategies and techniques can be effectively hunted. Creek bottoms lined with mature oaks, hickories, and walnuts attract feeding squirrels throughout the fall. Hunters often find a spot to sit quietly, increasing their chances of encountering squirrels, which are often treed by hunting dogs.
Agricultural Edges and Shelterbelts
In agricultural areas, woodlots, shelterbelts, and wooded fencerows offer cover and food sources for squirrels moving between fields and forest patches.
A common strategy is for one hunter to walk ahead of another, chasing and spotting squirrels while the other remains stationary.
State Parks and Fish and Wildlife Areas
Many of Indiana’s State Parks and Fish and Wildlife Areas are open to squirrel hunting during designated seasons. Areas like Glendale FWA and Morgan-Monroe State Forest offer good access and abundant habitat. Scouting specific locations within these areas, such as regions rich in particular tree species or near agricultural settings like cornfields, can significantly enhance your chances of successful squirrel hunting. The time spent scouting and hunting in these areas can be incredibly rewarding, providing both a connection to nature and a fruitful hunting experience.
Tips for Successful Squirrel Hunts
Move Quietly and Watch the Canopy
Slow, careful walking with frequent pauses allows hunters to spot squirrels feeding or moving in the treetops. Sitting quietly in one position can also be an effective strategy for spotting squirrels. Hearing and listening for cutting sounds is key.
Use a Light Rifle or Shotgun
A .22 rifle is an ideal gun for precise shots in open woods, while a light 20-gauge shotgun is excellent for quicker shots in thicker cover.
The satisfaction of making a successful hit on a squirrel can spark a lifelong passion for hunting, highlighting the joy and camaraderie associated with the sport.
Work with a Squirrel Dog
Using a well-trained dog adds excitement and efficiency to squirrel hunting. Using excitement and interaction to draw the dog’s interest towards a squirrel is crucial. A good squirrel dog can locate and bark to signal the presence of squirrels, then tree them, which might otherwise go unnoticed.
Focus on Mast Trees
Acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts are prime food sources in fall. Watching squirrels hopping from limb to limb can lead to better hunting opportunities. Eventually, both young pups and hunters will develop their skills over time, learning to be patient and improving their techniques with experience. Concentrate efforts around trees with fresh cuttings and feeding sign.
Conclusion
Indiana’s combination of hardwood forests, creek bottoms, and farmland edges offers squirrel hunters a traditional small game experience filled with quiet walks, sharp shooting, and the thrill of working with a squirrel dog. With patience, good scouting, and a love of the woods, hunters can enjoy memorable hunts across Indiana’s scenic landscapes.
FAQs
When is squirrel season in Indiana?
Squirrel season typically runs from late August through the end of January. This period also overlaps with deer hunting season, providing hunters with multiple opportunities for different types of game.
Do I need a license to hunt squirrels?
Yes. A valid hunting license is required.
Completing a hunter safety course is also recommended for acquiring foundational hunting skills, such as patience and safe gun handling.
What firearm should I use for squirrel hunting?
A .22 rifle or a light shotgun with small shot is recommended for those looking to shoot squirrels, as these firearms are ideal for the techniques and experiences involved in the hunt.
Where are the best places to hunt squirrels?
Hardwood forests, creek bottoms, agricultural edges, and State Fish and Wildlife Areas offer excellent squirrel hunting locations.
What time of day is best for squirrel hunting?
Early morning and late afternoon when squirrels are feeding. Waiting patiently in a designated spot can increase the chances of spotting squirrels.
Are public lands good for squirrel hunting?
Yes. Indiana’s State Parks, State Forests, and Fish and Wildlife Areas on public land offer good access and numerous opportunities for squirrel hunting.
Can I hunt squirrels without a dog?
Yes. Still-hunting is very effective, but squirrel dogs add another level of excitement. Young pups may take longer to learn and become effective hunting companions, requiring a bit of patience and experience. Early training is crucial as the skills they acquire will benefit them throughout their entire life.
Is camo necessary for squirrel hunting?
Camo helps hunters blend in and stay unnoticed by sharp-eyed squirrels.
Are there bag limits for squirrels?
Yes. Indiana sets daily and possession bag limits, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations. Always check current regulations.
Can non-residents hunt squirrels in Indiana?
Yes. Non-residents can hunt squirrels with the appropriate hunting license.
Â