5 Reasons You Need to Hunt Winter Squirrels

By Steve Hickoff author of Turkey Blog with Steve HickoffDecember 18, 2018

Where states offer it, winter squirrel hunting is a nice way to unwind. It allows you to continue your year spent outdoors right into the next one. We came up with a handful of reasons you should consider it.

1. Action

Hunt deer or wild turkey? For the most part, you're going to have to put in some time. And then some. And that's cool. That's okay. The effort builds into the reward.

Squirrel hunting often involves more action than whitetails and wild turkeys. And that's a nice thing, too. It's great for kids especially (and restless adults), both as a teaching tool and pure hunting pleasure.

2. For Your Dog

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Does your dog chase and bark at squirrels? Well then.

Ever consider running your canine companion on squirrels? While curs and fiests are commonly bred to do the job, other dogs – including mixed breeds – might have what it takes in terms of prey drive and desire to hunt squirrels.

Read More: How to Hunt Squirrels with a Dog

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3. Abundance

This past fall, at least in the Northeast where I make my home, folks were kicking around the phrase, "squirrel apocalypse."

They were referring to the massive numbers of roadkilled bushytails on highways and back roads in New England, New York and elsewhere.

In short, squirrels are abundant, at least in this part of the country. New Hampshire even extends its state squirrel season through the month of January.

Check your state to see if such opportunities are available.

4. Food

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Squirrels, when handled and prepared properly, make for great wild game on the table, sourced directly from the outdoors.

Classic Recipe: Slow Cooker Squirrel and Dumplings

More Recipes: Realtree's Timber 2 Table

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5. It's Hunting

Hunting. It's in your every fiber. You need it to feel normal, to feel right and to be yourself.

You've enjoyed your deer or duck season. Or predators. And spring turkey hunting is still months away, even though some seasons are even offered in January. Maybe you've hunted other small game too.

Winter squirrel hunting. If a season is offered in your state, consider it.

And take a friend or family member along. Even someone who has never hunted before. You might even convert them too.

More Realtree small game hunting. Follow Realtree on Facebook.