Every fall, thousands of hunters from all over the East Coast descend on Delaware in search of one thing: squirrels. For some, it’s a family tradition. For others, it’s a way to put food on the table. But for all of them, it’s a chance to enjoy the great outdoors and take part in one of Delaware’s most popular pastimes. In this blog post, we will explore the history of squirrel hunting in Delaware, as well as some tips and tricks for those who are looking to give it a try. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or someone who’s never even held a gun before, read on to learn everything you need to know about squirrel hunting in Delaware.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Delaware
The first thing you need to know when squirrel hunting in Delaware is the state’s laws and regulations. The State of Delaware regulates hunting through the Division of Fish & Wildlife, which sets rules and restrictions on when, where, and how you can hunt.
In order to hunt squirrels in Delaware, you must have a valid hunting license. You can purchase a license online or at any authorized licensing agency. The cost of a license varies depending on your residency status and whether you want a one-day or annual license.
There are also certain areas where squirrel hunting is not allowed, such as state parks, wildlife refuges, and private property without permission from the owner. Make sure to check the maps and regulations for the area where you plan to hunt before heading out.
Squirrel season in Delaware typically runs from mid-October through late February. During this time, you are allowed to take two squirrels per day with a shotgun or .22 caliber rifle. It is important to note that there are different bag limits for each county, so be sure to check the regulations for the county where you will be hunting.
When squirrel hunting in Delaware, always remember to follow the state’s laws and regulations in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Delaware: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Delaware?
In Delaware, you need a hunting license to hunt any species of wildlife. The fee for a resident hunting license is $8.50, and the fee for a non-resident hunting license is $38.00. A trapping license is also required to trap any species of wildlife. The fee for a resident trapping license is $16.00, and the fee for a non-resident trapping license is $51.00. You can purchase your hunting or trapping license at any authorized agent or online at the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Delaware
In Delaware, the hunting season for squirrels begins on the first Saturday in September and runs through February 28th. A hunter can take a maximum of 6 squirrels per day. There is no limit to the number of days a person can hunt, however, hunters are required to possess a valid hunting license. The bag limit for squirrels does not include any other species of game.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Delaware?
The answer to this question is yes, you can hunt squirrels at night in Delaware. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before heading out on your nighttime squirrel-hunting adventure. First, you will need to purchase a Delaware hunting license and make sure you are familiar with the state’s hunting regulations. Secondly, it is important to choose a safe and legal place to hunt. Finally, be sure to take proper safety precautions when hunting at night.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Delaware
According to the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife, the bag limit for squirrel hunting is 6 per day. The season runs from October 1st through February 28th.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Delaware
In Delaware, it is legal to hunt squirrels with a permit during the open season. The open season for hunting squirrels typically runs from October 1st through March 31st.
To obtain a permit, hunters must first pass a hunter safety course approved by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). Once they have completed the course, hunters can apply for a license online or at any DNREC office.
Hunters are required to wear blaze orange when hunting squirrels in Delaware. They are also only allowed to use firearms that are .22 caliber or smaller, as well as air guns, pellet guns, and bows and arrows.
There is no bag limit for squirrels in Delaware, but hunters are only allowed to take possession of two squirrels at any given time. All harvested animals must be properly tagged before they are removed from the property where they were killed.
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in Delaware?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt squirrels in Delaware. The most common type of dog used for this is the Beagle, as they are good at following scents and have a lot of energy. Other dogs that can be used include the Foxhound, Treeing Walker Coonhound, and American Water Spaniel.
When using dogs to hunt squirrels, it is important to make sure that they are properly trained. This means that they should be able to follow commands and be able to stay on the trail of the animal. Dogs that are not properly trained may chase other animals or get lost in the woods.
In addition to training your dog, you will also need to have a good understanding of its behavior. This includes knowing when they are getting tired or excited so that you can give them a break or call them back. Dogs that are allowed to run too hard may overheat or become injured.
Dogs can be a great asset when hunting squirrels, but it is important to remember that they require some extra care and attention. With proper training and understanding, your dog will be an excellent hunting partner.
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Delaware?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Delaware as long as you comply with the state’s hunting regulations. A few key things to keep in mind include obtaining the required permits, staying within the designated hunting areas, and using appropriate ammunition. When it comes to choosing a weapon, a shotgun is often the best option for squirrel hunting. Remember to always follow safety protocols when handling firearms.
Final Thoughts
Delaware is a great state for squirrel hunting. The state is home to many different types of squirrels, including the red squirrel, grey squirrel, and fox squirrel. There are also many different types of terrain in Delaware, from forests to fields to wetlands. This variety makes it easy to find a good spot for squirrel hunting.
The most important thing to remember when squirrel hunting in Delaware is to get a license. Hunting without a license is illegal and can result in heavy fines. Licenses can be obtained at any Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife office or online at the Delaware Hunting License website.
With a license in hand, head out into the woods and start looking for signs of squirrel activity. Pay attention to fresh tracks in the snow, chewing marks on tree bark, and nests in trees. When you find an area with lots of signs, set up your hunt and be patient. Squirrels can be elusive, but if you wait long enough, chances are good that one will cross your path.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, Squirrel hunting in Delaware is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and put some fresh meat on the table. Just remember to get a license first!
