Missouri is home to many different types of wildlife, including several species of squirrel. If you’re looking to add some variety to your hunting repertoire, or if you’re just getting started in the sport, squirrel hunting can be a great option. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about squirrel hunting in Missouri, from the best time of year to hunt to the type of equipment you will need. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a complete novice, this guide will give you all the information you need to get started squirrel hunting in Missouri.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Missouri
In Missouri, there are a few things to remember when squirrel hunting. One, you need a valid hunting permit. Second, you need to be aware of the bag limits. In Missouri, the daily bag limit for squirrels is 8 and the possession limit is 24. Lastly, you need to be familiar with the seasons in which squirrel hunting is allowed. In Missouri, the fall squirrel season runs from September 1st through February 28th.
Now that you know the basics, let’s get into some more specific details about squirrel hunting laws in Missouri.
First and foremost, it is important to remember that you need a valid hunting permit in order to hunt any animal in Missouri, including squirrels. You can obtain a permit by visiting the Missouri Department of Conservation website or by visiting a local conservation office.
Next, you need to be aware of the bag limits for squirrel hunting in Missouri. The daily bag limit for squirrels is 8 and the possession limit is 24. This means that you can only kill 8 squirrels in a day and can only have 24 in your possession at any given time.
Lastly, it is important to be familiar with the seasons during which squirrel hunting is allowed in Missouri. The fall season runs from September 1st through February 28th. During this time, you are allowed to hunt squirrels with either firearms or bows and arrows.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Missouri: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Missouri?
In Missouri, there is no statewide law requiring a hunting license for small game, so you do not need a license to hunt squirrels. However, if you plan to hunt on land that is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), you will need to purchase a Small Game Hunting Permit. The permit costs $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents and is valid for the calendar year in which it is purchased.
If you are 16 years of age or older, you must have a valid hunting permit to take any wildlife (including squirrels) on MDC-managed land. If you are under 16 years of age, you must have completed a Hunter Education Course before purchasing a hunting permit.
You can purchase permits at any MDC office or online.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Missouri
The Missouri Department of Conservation sets the squirrel hunting seasons. The fall season typically opens the first Saturday in September and continues through February 15. The spring season typically opens on the third Saturday in April and continues through May 31.
During the fall season, hunters may take either six gray squirrels or six fox squirrels per day statewide. The bag limit for the spring season is eight gray squirrels or four fox squirrels per day statewide.
A hunting permit is required for all residents ages 16-64, and nonresidents must purchase a nonresident small game hunting permit. You can get more information on permit requirements on the Missouri Department of Conservation website.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Missouri?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels at night in Missouri. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need to obtain a permit from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Second, you will need to be aware of the regulations regarding hunting hours and bag limits. Finally, you will need to be prepared for the challenges of hunting at night.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Missouri
The Missouri Department of Conservation has set the daily bag limit for squirrel hunting at 8. This means that a hunter can kill and possess up to 8 squirrels in a day. The possession limit is 16, so a hunter can have up to 16 squirrels in their possession at any given time.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Missouri
If you’re looking to hunt squirrels in Missouri, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need a hunting permit. You can get one at any Missouri Department of Conservation office or online through the MDC website. Once you have your permit, there are a few different ways you can legally hunt squirrels in Missouri.
One way is to use dogs. You can train your own dog to hunt squirrels, or you can join a hunting club that uses dogs. Hunting with dogs is a great way to get exercise and fresh air while also enjoying some time spent outdoors with your furry friend.
Another legal way to hunt squirrels in Missouri is with traps. You can purchase traps at most hardware stores, and there are many different kinds to choose from. Be sure to set your trap in an area where squirrels are known to frequent, such as near a food source or water source.
Finally, you can also shoot squirrels with a firearm. If you choose this method, be sure to follow all safety regulations and only shoot when it is safe to do so. Remember, always practice safe hunting!
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in Missouri?
Yes, you can use dogs to hunt squirrels in Missouri. There are a few things to keep in mind when using dogs for this type of hunting, though. First, make sure that your dog is well-trained and will not chase other animals such as deer or rabbits. Secondly, be aware of the specific laws in your area regarding the use of dogs for hunting. Finally, remember that squirrels are quick and agile, so your dog will need to be able to keep up with them.
If you follow these simple guidelines, you and your dog will have a great time hunting squirrels in Missouri!
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Missouri?
Missouri law does not prohibit hunting from a vehicle as long as the vehicle is not used to intentionally herd or drive a game. However, hunters should be aware that some localities have ordinances that prohibit discharging a firearm from or across a public road. Be sure to check with your local conservation agent for specific regulations in your area.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our discussion on squirrel hunting in Missouri, we want to leave you with a few final thoughts. First and foremost, always remember to follow all state and federal regulations when hunting. Secondly, be sure to take the time to properly clean and prepare your game before consuming it. And finally, have fun! Hunting is supposed to be enjoyable so make sure you take the time to enjoy the experience.
