Hunting is a popular pastime in Maine, and there are many different game animals to choose from. One of the most popular game animals to hunt in Maine is the squirrel. Squirrel hunting can be a fun and challenging way to spend time outdoors, and it can also be a great way to put food on the table. If you’re thinking about getting into squirrel hunting, or if you’re just curious about what it entails, read on for everything you need to know.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Maine
Squirrel hunting laws in Maine are very specific, and failure to follow them can result in serious penalties. Here are some of the most important laws to keep in mind when hunting squirrels in Maine:
- All hunters must have a valid hunting license.
- Hunters must wear fluorescent orange while hunting during the daylight hours.
- The use of dogs is allowed for squirrel hunting, but they must be under the control of the hunter at all times.
- The bag limit for squirrels is four per day.
- Squirrels may only be taken with firearms or air guns that shoot pellets or BBs.
- Shotguns must be 20 gauge or larger, and rifles must be .22 caliber or larger.
- Baiting is not allowed while hunting squirrels.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Maine: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Maine?
In Maine, you need a license to hunt squirrels. The cost of a license is $26 for residents and $56 for non-residents. You can buy a license online at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website or at any retail location that sells hunting licenses. If you’re 16 years of age or older, you must have a valid hunting license to hunt squirrels in Maine.
If you’re under 16 years of age, you can hunt without a license if you’re accompanied by a licensed adult 18 years of age or older. The adult must be within sight and hearing distance at all times and must not be hunting themselves. You can also hunt without a license if you’re a resident landowner or lessee (with proof of ownership or lease) and you’re hunting on your own property.
Squirrel season in Maine runs from September 1st through March 31st. There is no bag limit for squirrels in Maine, which means you can kill as many as you want (as long as it’s legal to do so with the type of firearm you’re using).
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Maine
In Maine, the squirrel hunting season typically runs from mid-October through mid-December. The best time to hunt squirrels is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are most active.
There are two main types of squirrels in Maine: the red squirrel and the gray squirrel. The red squirrel is smaller, with a reddish brown coat and white underparts. The gray squirrel is larger, with a grayish-brown coat and white underparts.
Both types of squirrels can be found in wooded areas throughout Maine. However, the red squirrel is more common in northern Maine, while the gray squirrel is more common in southern Maine.
When hunting Squirrels in Maine, it is important to be aware of the different bag limits for each type of Squirrel. For example, the bag limit for red Squirrels is six per day, while the bag limit for gray Squirrels is four per day.
It is also important to check local regulations before heading out on a hunt, as some areas may have specific seasons or bag limits for Squirrel hunting.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Maine?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels at night in Maine. There are no specific regulations regarding hunting squirrels at night. Therefore, you can use any legal method of taking game animals. Hunters should be aware that there is always the potential for other hunters to be out and about, so it is important to be cautious and wear bright clothing.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Maine
In Maine, the bag limit for squirrel hunting is four per day. For hunters 16 years of age and older, a valid hunting license is required. Hunting licenses can be obtained from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Maine
Maine offers many opportunities for squirrel hunting, with a variety of habitats and a healthy population of game animals. The most popular method of taking squirrels is still with a shotgun, although Maine law also allows the use of air rifles and pellet guns.
Although there are no closed seasons or bag limits on squirrels in Maine, hunters should check the rules and regulations of the specific wildlife management unit they plan to hunt in. Some units may have special restrictions on methods of take or other regulations designed to protect the resource.
As far as equipment goes, hunters will need a shotgun capable of firing shells loaded with size 6 or 7 shots. A .22 caliber rimfire rifle can also be used but is less effective than a shotgun at dispatching game animals humanely. Air rifles and pellet guns may be used if they are powerful enough to kill squirrels cleanly (minimum muzzle energy of 12 ft-lbs is recommended).
When hunting squirrels in Maine, it is important to remember that they are protected under state law from wanton waste and destruction. This means that all edible portions of the animal must be utilized, and carcasses must not be left to rot in the woods. For more information on legal ways to hunt squirrels in Maine, please consult the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife’s Hunting Laws & Rules booklet.
Can you use dogs to hunt Squirrels in Maine?
Dogs can be used to hunt squirrels in Maine, but there are some things to consider before doing so. First, check the regulations to see if dogs are allowed for squirrel hunting in your specific area. Secondly, think about what kind of dog would be best suited for this type of hunting. A small, nimble dog that can climb trees may be ideal. Finally, consider what kind of training your dog will need in order to be successful at this type of hunting.
If you decide to use a dog to hunt squirrels in Maine, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure you check the regulations to see if dogs are allowed for hunting in your specific area. Secondly, think about what kind of dog would be best suited for this type of hunting. A small, nimble dog that can climb trees may be ideal. Finally, consider what kind of training your dog will need in order to be successful at this type of hunting. By following these tips, you and your furry friend can have a fun and successful squirrel-hunting adventure!
Can you hunt Squirrel from a vehicle in Maine?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Maine. You must have a valid Maine hunting license and follow all state regulations. When hunting from a vehicle, you must be stationary and not moving. You can use any legal method of taking squirrels, including firearms, archery equipment, or traps. The best time to hunt squirrels is early morning or evening when they are most active.
Final Thoughts
Maine is a great place to hunt squirrels. The state has a variety of terrain and plenty of trees for the animals to hide in. Hunting in Maine can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding.
If you’re thinking about going squirrel hunting in Maine, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure you have a good understanding of the state’s hunting regulations. Second, choose an area to hunt that has good potential for success. And finally, be prepared for some tough conditions.
But if you’re willing to put in the work, squirrel hunting in Maine can be a great experience. So get out there and give it a try!
