Wooded Hills and River Bottom Adventures
Oklahoma’s mix of rolling hills, river bottoms, and hardwood forests offers excellent opportunities for squirrel hunting, where many hunters can spend time immersed in nature. With strong populations of fox squirrels and gray squirrels, the state provides small game hunters with a classic and rewarding outdoor experience across a wide variety of habitats.
Squirrel Species in Oklahoma
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Fox Squirrel: The larger of the two species, often found in open woodlots and along field edges.
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Gray Squirrel: Prefers denser, mature hardwood forests, especially near water.
Season Dates and Licensing
Squirrel hunting season in Oklahoma typically runs from early May through the end of January. Hunters must possess a valid Oklahoma small game hunting license. Hunting and fishing licenses are a crucial funding source for wildlife conservation, supporting efforts to maintain and protect wildlife habitats. Always check Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) regulations for current season dates, bag limits, and area-specific rules. The wildlife department manages various public lands and provides updated information on hunting regulations to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable hunting experience.
Best Areas for Squirrel Hunting
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Eastern Oklahoma: Hardwood forests and river systems like the Verdigris, Illinois, and Arkansas Rivers are prime areas. These areas are also popular for hunting other game such as deer, ducks, geese, raccoons, and turkey.
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Ouachita and Ozark National Forests: These large tracts offer excellent public hunting for both fox and gray squirrels.
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Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): WMAs across the eastern and central parts of the state provide good access. The Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area, in particular, is an excellent location for hunting various wildlife, including squirrels, raccoons, and turkey.
Focus on oak, hickory, and pecan groves, particularly near water sources.
Best Time of Day to Hunt Squirrels
Early mornings and late afternoons are the most productive times. After cold fronts, squirrels may feed throughout the midday hours, especially on sunny days.
Tactics for Success
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Still-Hunting: Walk slowly through timber, stopping often to listen for feeding squirrels. Keep your ears open to detect the sounds made by squirrels, such as their barks and movements. Taking breaks for snacks during long walks can help maintain energy levels and provide necessary rest.
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Sit-and-Wait: Set up near mast trees and wait for squirrels to come out to feed.
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Spot-and-Stalk: Use optics to scan tree branches and move in for a shot once a squirrel is located. Squirrels often climb trees to evade hunters, flattening their bodies along limbs or hiding on the opposite side of tree trunks, making it essential to be patient and observant.
After a rain, squirrels tend to be more active as they forage among wet leaves and branches.
Gear for Oklahoma Squirrel Hunting
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Firearms: .22 rifles for precision shots and 20 or 12 gauge shotguns for quick shooting in heavy cover. Remember, obtaining the necessary licenses for hunting activities is crucial for legal compliance and conservation efforts.
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Archery: Archery equipment is also a viable method for hunting squirrels, especially in areas where hunting is restricted to archery only. Hunting is a permitted use under certain laws, so be sure to understand the regulations governing your activities.
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Clothing: Lightweight layers for early season and warmer clothes for late fall hunts. Blaze orange is recommended.
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Footwear: Comfortable boots suitable for mixed terrain and wet conditions.
Meat Care and Handling
Field dress squirrels promptly to preserve meat quality, especially during warmer months. Use skinning tools and game bags to keep meat clean, and always cook squirrel meat thoroughly to safe internal temperatures. Understanding food sources like acorns, hickory nuts, and insects is important, as these are critical for squirrels and can help hunters locate and hunt them more effectively.
Conclusion
Squirrel hunting in Oklahoma provides an exciting and accessible way to enjoy the state’s rich woodlands and river systems. With long seasons, varied terrain, and abundant squirrels, it’s a great pursuit for hunters of all experience levels. Whether you’re stalking along a hardwood ridge or easing through a pecan bottom, Oklahoma’s squirrel woods offer rewarding action throughout much of the year.
FAQs
What license do I need to hunt squirrels in Oklahoma?
A valid small game hunting license is required.
When does squirrel season open in Oklahoma?
Typically early May through the end of January.
What guns are best for squirrel hunting?
.22 rifles for precision shots and 20 or 12 gauge shotguns for close-range shooting.
Where can I find public land for squirrel hunting?
National forests, Wildlife Management Areas, and public hunting areas offer good access. It is important to be familiar with the boundaries of these public lands to ensure compliance with regulations. Permission is often required before entry on certain areas, and some regions have restricted access, particularly during specific times. Balancing public use with safety and wildlife management is crucial in these areas.
Is blaze orange required?
Blaze orange is recommended for safety, especially during overlapping big game seasons.
What time of day is best for hunting squirrels?
Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times.
How should I care for squirrel meat?
Field dress promptly, cool quickly, and cook thoroughly.
Are squirrels abundant in Oklahoma?
Yes, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the state.
Can I hunt squirrels with a dog?
Yes, trained squirrel dogs can be very effective.
Is squirrel hunting beginner-friendly?
Yes, it’s a great way to introduce new hunters to the outdoors and basic hunting skills. Squirrel hunting is not only beginner-friendly but also a fun way to enjoy the outdoors.