When most people think of hunting, they imagine going out into the woods with a rifle and waiting for their prey to cross their path. But Squirrel hunting is a bit different. It’s a challenging sport that requires skill, patience, and sometimes a little bit of luck. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of squirrel hunting in Minnesota. From the best time to hunt to the type of equipment you need, we will cover everything you need to know to get started. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, read on for some tips on how to make your next squirrel hunting trip a success.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Minnesota
In Minnesota, it is legal to hunt squirrels with a shotgun, air rifle, or bow and arrow. The daily bag limit is 10 squirrels, and the possession limit is 20. There is no closed season for hunting squirrels in Minnesota.
The only exception to the general rule allowing hunting of squirrels with firearms, bows, and arrows is in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, where the use of lead shot is prohibited when hunting all species (including squirrels) within the metropolitan zone.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Minnesota: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, you need a hunting license to hunt any animal, including squirrels. You can buy a hunting license from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, or from any licensed agent.
You must be at least 16 years old to get a hunting license in Minnesota. If you’re under 18, you can get a junior hunting license. You must complete a hunter education course before you can get a hunting license if you were born after December 31, 1979.
If you’re a resident of Minnesota, you can buy a resident hunting license for $26. A resident license allows you to hunt all small game and deer. If you want to hunt a bear or turkey, you need to buy an additional stamp.
Non-residents can buy a small game license for $85, which allows them to hunt small games including squirrels. A deer license for non-residents costs $310 and includes one deer tag. Additional deer tags cost $20 each.
You need to wear blaze orange when squirrel hunting in Minnesota so other hunters can see you easily.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Minnesota
The Minnesota hunting season for squirrels generally runs from mid-August to early January, with a few exceptions. In the southern parts of the state, the season may be extended until February.
During the early part of the season, hunters will find squirrels in trees as they search for food. As the weather cools and acorns begin to fall, squirrels will move to the ground to feed. This is when hunters can have the most success.
Late in the season, as temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, squirrels will huddle together in groups to stay warm. This is known as “yarding up” and can make them easier to find and hunt.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Minnesota?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels at night in Minnesota, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to have a valid hunting license and be aware of the current hunting regulations. Second, it is important to know where to find squirrels during the day so you can track them at night. Third, be prepared for some challenging stalking as most squirrels will be hunkered down in their dens at night. Finally, remember to use appropriate lighting and optics when hunting at night.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Minnesota
The bag limit for hunting squirrels in Minnesota is four per day. A person may take only one antlered deer during the deer season. The following limits also apply to furbearers: otter, six; beaver, two; and bobcat, one.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Minnesota
In Minnesota, there are three ways to legally hunt squirrels. The first is with a shotgun during the regular hunting season, which runs from September 1-December 31. The second way is with a .22 caliber or smaller rifle during the early season, which runs from August 26-September 30. The third way is with a bow and arrow during the archery season, which runs from September 15-December 31.
To hunt with a shotgun, you will need a valid hunting license and a small game license. You can purchase these licenses at any Minnesota Department of Natural Resources office or online at the DNR website. You will also need to purchase a shotgun permit if you plan on using baited traps or blinds to hunt squirrels.
To hunt with a .22 caliber or smaller rifle, you will need a valid hunting license and a furbearer license. You can purchase these licenses at any Minnesota Department of Natural Resources office or online at the DNR website. You will also need to purchase a .22 caliber or smaller rifle permit if you plan on using baited traps or blinds to hunt squirrels.
To hunt with a bow and arrow, you will need a valid hunting license and an archery license. You can purchase these licenses at any Minnesota Department of Natural Resources office or online at the DNR website. You will also need to purchase an archery permit if you plan on using baited traps or blinds to hunt squirrels.
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in Minnesota?
Dogs can be used to hunt squirrels in Minnesota, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, Minnesota has a statewide baiting ban in place, so hunters will need to find other ways to attract squirrels. Second, dogs must be leashed at all times while hunting, and third, it is illegal to shoot a squirrel with a shotgun larger than 20 gauge.
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, it is legal to hunt squirrels from a vehicle, provided that the vehicle is not moving. This allows hunters to cover more ground and increase their chances of getting a squirrel. There are a few things to keep in mind when hunting squirrels from a vehicle:
- Make sure you have permission from the landowner before driving on their property.
- Be aware of your surroundings and be sure not to disturb other wildlife or Hunters.
- Use caution when handling firearms in and around vehicles.
Final Thoughts
As the leaves begin to change color and fall from the trees, many hunters begin to think about deer hunting. However, squirrel hunting is also a great way to enjoy the autumn months in Minnesota.
There are several things to consider when squirrel hunting, such as what type of gun or ammunition to use and where to find the best hunting grounds. You will also need a valid hunting license.
If you are new to squirrel hunting, it is important to do some research beforehand and talk to experienced hunters. Once you have everything you need, head out into the woods and enjoy the hunt!
