Hunting season is just around the corner, and if you’re like me, you’re already planning your trips and getting your gear ready. This year, I’m excited to share that I’ll be heading to New Mexico for a squirrel-hunting adventure. If you’re not familiar with squirrel hunting, it can be a fun and challenging way to spend a day in the woods. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on how to get started, what to expect, and what gear you’ll need. I hope you enjoy reading and that it gets you excited for your own hunting adventures.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico is a state located in the southwestern United States. According to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, there are four species of squirrels that can be found in the state: Abert’s Squirrel, Chicaree Ground Squirrel, Colorado Chipmunk, and Gray-footed Chipmunk.
In New Mexico, it is legal to hunt squirrels with a shotgun, air rifle, or pellet gun. The bag limit is six squirrels per day. Hunting hours are from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
There are some areas in New Mexico where it is not legal to hunt squirrels. These areas include national parks, national forests, and private property unless you have written permission from the landowner. It is also against the law to shoot a firearm within 150 yards of any occupied dwelling without the owner’s permission.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in New Mexico: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, you do not need a license to hunt squirrels. You can use any legal means to take them, including firearms, bows, and trapping. There is no bag limit or season for hunting squirrels in New Mexico.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the squirrel hunting season typically runs from mid-August to late February. However, the exact dates vary depending on the area you are hunting in. For example, in the southern part of the state, the season usually starts a few days later than in the northern part.
If you are planning on doing some squirrel hunting in New Mexico, it is important to check the regulations for the specific area you will be hunting in. The regulations can be found on the website of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.
When choosing a spot to hunt, look for areas with a lot of trees. Squirrels spend most of their time in trees, so this is where you are likely to find them. They also like to eat acorns and other nuts, so look for areas where there are a lot of these trees.
The best time to hunt squirrels is early in the morning or late in the evening. This is when they are most active.
Squirrel hunting can be a lot of fun and a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. Just make sure you know the regulations and follow them so everyone can enjoy safe and successful hunts.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in New Mexico?
It is legal to hunt squirrels at night in New Mexico. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to know what kind of squirrel you are hunting. There are two types of squirrels in New Mexico: the Abert’s Squirrel and the Northern Ground Squirrel. Both can be found in different parts of the state.
Secondly, it is important to have a flashlight or headlamp with you so you can see where you are going and what you are shooting at. Third, because it is dark, you will need to be extra careful when handling your firearm. Make sure you know how to use your gun safely and always keep the safety on until you are ready to shoot. Finally, be aware of your surroundings and make sure you are not trespassing on private property.
If you follow these guidelines, hunting squirrels at night can be a fun and rewarding experience. You just need to be prepared and take extra safety precautions.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in New Mexico
The bag limit for hunting squirrels in New Mexico is four. This means a person can harvest a maximum of four squirrels daily. There are no restrictions on the sex of the animal, so hunters can take two males and two females, or all four of the same sex. There is also no limit on the number of days that a person can hunt, so long as they do not exceed the bag limit.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in New Mexico
In New Mexico, there are a few different ways you can legally hunt squirrels. The most common way is with a shotgun, but you can also use a .22 caliber rifle or air gun. You will need a hunting license to hunt squirrels in New Mexico. The best time to hunt squirrels is in the early morning or late evening when they are active. Look for signs of squirrel activity such as fresh tracks, droppings, and gnawed nuts.
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in New Mexico?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt squirrels in New Mexico. Some people use their dogs to help them track and flush out the squirrels from their hiding spots. Other people use their dogs to actually catch the squirrels. Dogs can be trained to do either of these things. If you are using your dog to help you track and flush out squirrels, it is important that your dog is well-behaved and does not chase them into trees or other places where they could get away. If you are using your dog to catch the squirrels, it is important that your dog is large enough and strong enough to safely catch and hold the squirrel without harming it.
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle as long as you follow the guidelines set forth by the state. You must have a valid hunting license, and you can only hunt on public land. Additionally, you must adhere to all local ordinances and laws. When hunting from a vehicle, you must be sure not to disturb other hunters or wildlife in the area.
Final Thoughts
After spending a few days hunting in New Mexico, I’ve come to some final thoughts on the experience. Overall, I had a great time and was successful in bagging a few squirrels. The scenery was beautiful, and the challenge of stalking such a wary game was enjoyable.
There are a few things that I would do differently next time, though. First, I would start my hunt earlier in the day. The squirrels seem to be most active in the morning, and by starting earlier I could avoid the heat of the day. Second, I would pay more attention to wind direction. Several times I got downwind of a squirrel only to have it scent me and bolt before I could get a shot off. If I paid better attention to the wind, I could avoid this problem.
Finally, I would recommend hunters new to the area take some time to scout out potential hunting grounds beforehand. There are many different types of habitat in New Mexico, and knowing where to look for squirrels can make a big difference in success rate. With a little planning and preparation, hunters can have a great time pursuing these wily little creatures in one of America’s most scenic states.
