Hunting season is upon us and if you’re looking for a new challenge, why not try squirrel hunting? Michigan is home to many different types of squirrels, so there’s sure to be one that fits your fancy. In this blog post, we will explore squirrel hunting in Michigan. We will cover everything from where to find squirrels, what type of equipment you need, and how to properly clean your catch. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time novice, read on for everything you need to know about squirrel hunting in Michigan.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Michigan
In Michigan, there are a few laws and regulations you need to follow in order to hunt squirrels. First, you need to have a valid hunting license. You can get a hunting license from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or from an authorized agent.
Squirrel season in Michigan runs from September 1st through March 31st. During this time, you can only hunt squirrels with firearms, bows, or crossbows. You are not allowed to use traps or dogs to hunt squirrels.
You can only shoot two squirrels per day, and you must keep them in the whole condition until you check them in with the DNR or an authorized agent. You also need to be aware of where you are hunting, as some areas may have additional restrictions on hunting squirrels.
The DNR has a helpful website that outlines all the Squirrel Hunting Laws in Michigan so be sure to check that out before heading out on your next hunting trip!
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Michigan: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Michigan?
In Michigan, you need a hunting license to take any animal, including squirrels. The good news is that licenses are relatively inexpensive and easy to get. You can buy one at any sporting goods store or online from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. A license will cost you around $20 and is valid for a year.
If you’re a resident of Michigan, you can also get a free license if you’re over the age of 65 or if you’re a member of the military. Disabled veterans can also get a free license with proof of disability. You can find more information on the DNR website.
Now that you know you need a license, let’s talk about where to hunt squirrels in Michigan.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Michigan
There are two squirrel hunting seasons in Michigan: the early season and the late season.
The early season runs from September 15th to November 14th. The late season runs from December 1st to January 31st.
During the early season, hunters can only take one squirrel per day. During the late season, hunters can take up to six squirrels per day.
Squirrels can be hunted with a shotgun, air rifle, or pellet gun. The use of baits or lures is prohibited while hunting squirrels.
When hunting on public land, hunters must have a valid hunting license and must follow all regulations set forth by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Michigan?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels at night in Michigan. There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, you’ll need to get a permit from the DNR. Second, you’ll need to be aware of the seasons and bag limits. Finally, you’ll need to know where to find them.
Squirrels are most active at dawn and dusk, so that’s the best time to hunt them. During the day, they tend to stay hidden in trees or thick brush. At night, they’re more likely to be out in the open feeding on nuts and berries.
To find squirrels at night, look for areas where there’s a lot of food available. Orchards and nut groves are good places to start. You can also set up a game camera near a known food source to see if there are any squirrels active in the area.
Remember, when hunting squirrels at night in Michigan, you’ll need a permit from the DNR and you’ll need to follow the seasons and bag limits. But if you do your homework and put in some time scouting, you should be able to have success.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Michigan
The bag limit for squirrel hunting in Michigan is six. This means that a hunter can only kill and possess a maximum of six squirrels at any given time. If a hunter wants to kill more than six squirrels, they must obtain additional permits from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Michigan
In Michigan, there are two ways to legally hunt squirrels. The first is with a shotgun and the second is with a .22 caliber rimfire rifle.
With a shotgun, you can use any size shot, but the most common sizes are #6 and #8. You will want to use a shotgun that is capable of holding at least three shells.
When hunting with a .22 caliber rifle, you can use either hollow point or solid point bullets. The most common method of hunting squirrels with a .22 is to shoot them in the head. This method is very effective, but you need to be very accurate to make sure you don’t miss and wound the animal.
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in Michigan?
Dogs can be used for hunting squirrels in Michigan, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, squirrels are small game animals, so it is important to use a dog that is not too large or aggressive. Second, squirrels are fast and agile, so a dog with good speed and agility is important. And finally, squirrels are often found in trees, so a dog that is comfortable climbing is also a plus. With these things in mind, here are a few breeds of dogs that may be good for hunting squirrels in Michigan:
- Jack Russell Terrier: These dogs are small and compact, making them perfect for getting into tight spots where squirrels might be hiding. They are also very energetic and athletic, able to keep up with even the quickest of squirrels.
- Border Collie: Another small breed of dog, Border Collies make excellent hunters due to their high intelligence and natural herding instincts. They also have good speed and agility, able to chase down even the most elusive of prey.
- Labrador Retriever: A versatile breed, Labs can be trained for many different types of hunting. They have a strong desire to please their owners, making them easy to train. Their size also makes them capable of taking down larger prey than some other breeds on this list.
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Michigan?
Michigan offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including squirrel hunting. Hunting squirrels from a vehicle is allowed in some areas of the state, but not all. If you’re planning on hunting squirrels from a vehicle, be sure to check the regulations for the area you plan to hunt in.
Final Thoughts
As the season comes to a close, hunters reflect on their successes and failures. Some will vow to never hunt again, while others make plans for next year. For those who had a successful season, they take pride in their harvest and the memories that will last a lifetime. For those who did not have much success, learn from their mistakes and look forward to the next season.
No matter what the outcome of the season was, squirrel hunting in Michigan is an experience that all hunters will remember. The beautiful scenery, the camaraderie among hunters, and the thrill of the chase are just a few things that make this state special. So whether you bagged your limit or came up empty-handed, Michigan is sure to provide you with an unforgettable hunting experience.
