Squirrel Hunting in Arizona: An Ultimate Guide

Squirrel hunting is a fun and challenging sport that can be enjoyed by hunters of all ages. If you’re looking for a new hunting adventure, squirrel hunting in Arizona may be just what you’re looking for. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to hunt squirrels in Arizona, as well as the equipment and techniques you’ll need to be successful. We’ll also touch on why squirrel hunting is such a great activity for beginner hunters. So read on for everything you need to know about squirrel hunting in Arizona!

Squirrel Hunting Laws in Arizona

Arizona is home to five species of squirrels: Abert’s, antelope, gray, red, and rock. Of these, only the Alberts and the red squirrel are found in the state in any abundance. Squirrel hunting season in Arizona generally runs from mid-August through early February, with a bag limit of six squirrels per day.

There are a few things to keep in mind when squirrel hunting in Arizona. First, all hunters must have a valid hunting license. Second, Squirrels may only be taken with firearms that use rimfire cartridges or air guns that shoot pellets or BBs. Third, baiting is not allowed while hunting squirrels in Arizona. Finally, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you are not trespassing on private property.

For more information on squirrel hunting laws in Arizona, please visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s website.

Related: Raccoon Hunting in Arizona: An Ultimate Guide

Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Arizona?

In Arizona, you need a license to hunt squirrels if you are using a firearm, air gun, or bow and arrow. You can get a hunting license from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. If you are under 18 years old, you need to have completed a hunter education course.

Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Arizona

In Arizona, the hunting seasons for squirrels generally start in mid-August and run through early February. The specific dates vary depending on the area of the state, but in general, the season opens earlier in southern Arizona and runs later in northern Arizona.

There are two species of squirrels that can be found in Arizona – the Abert’s squirrel and the Kaibab squirrel. The Abert’s squirrel is found throughout most of the state, while the Kaibab squirrel is only found in a small area near the Grand Canyon.

The best time to hunt Squirrels is early in the morning or late in the evening when they are actively feeding. During the heat of the day, they will often retreat to their nests where they will remain until cooler temperatures return.

When hunting Squirrels, it is important to pay attention to wind direction as they have a very keen sense of smell and will quickly detect any human odor that is present. Hunting from a blind or tree stand can increase your chances of success, as it will allow you to get closer to your quarry without being detected.

Whether you are a novice hunter looking to try something new or an experienced hunter looking for a challenge, hunting Squirrels in Arizona can provide you with an enjoyable experience. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can increase your chances of success and take home some tasty game meat at the same time!

Can you hunt squirrels at night in Arizona?

In Arizona, you can hunt squirrels at night with a few exceptions. You cannot use artificial light to illuminate the area where you are hunting or to spotlight the game. You also cannot use any type of motorized vehicle, including an all-terrain vehicle, to chase or herd game. If you are caught hunting squirrels at night in violation of these regulations, you could be fined and/or lose your hunting privileges.

Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Arizona

The bag limit for squirrel hunting in Arizona is six per day. This limit applies to all species of squirrels combined, including Abert’s squirrel, Kaibab squirrel, and white-tailed squirrel. Possession limits are twice the daily bag limit.

Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Arizona

There are a few ways to legally hunt squirrels in Arizona. The most common method is with a shotgun, but it is also possible to use a .22 caliber rifle. If you plan on using a shotgun, make sure to use pellets that are no larger than number 6. You will also need a small game hunting license, which can be obtained from the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

Another option for hunting squirrels is using live traps. These must be at least 10 inches long, 5 inches wide and 5 inches tall. You can purchase these traps from most hardware stores or online retailers. Once you have your trap, bait it with sunflower seeds, peanuts, or other nuts. Place the trap in an area where you have seen squirrels active and check it every day. When you catch a squirrel, release it at least five miles away from your home.

If you have a dog that is good at hunting, you can also use them to help you catch squirrels. Dogs can chase the animals up trees and then hold them there until you arrive to shoot them. Be sure to get permission from the landowner before taking your dog out onto their property for hunting purposes.

Whatever method you choose for hunting squirrels, make sure that you are following all of the legal regulations set forth by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. By doing so, you can ensure that your hunt is safe and successful.

Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in Arizona?

Yes, you can use dogs to hunt squirrels in Arizona. There are many different types of dogs that can be used for this purpose, including terriers, hounds, and even some smaller breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier. The best time to go hunting for squirrels is early in the morning or late in the evening when they are most active. You will need to get a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department before you can start hunting.

Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Arizona?

Yes, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Arizona. There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, you need to have a valid hunting license. Second, you need to be sure that your vehicle is not blocking the road or path of other hunters. Finally, you should be aware that there are areas where it is not legal to shoot from a vehicle.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up our squirrel hunting in Arizona, we wanted to share some final thoughts. Overall, we had a great time and were successful in our hunt. We enjoyed the challenge of finding and stalking our prey and were rewarded with some tasty meals.

There are a few things we would do differently next time, however. First, we would start scouting out potential hunting areas well in advance of the season. This would give us a better idea of where the squirrels are most active and make it easier to find them when we’re ready to hunt.

Second, we would invest in some better gear. Our camouflage clothing worked well enough, but next time we want to be really prepared with the best possible equipment.

Finally, we would recommend that anyone thinking about squirrel hunting in Arizona do their research and plan ahead. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience, and with a little preparation, you can have a great time too.

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