If you’re looking for a fun and challenging hunting experience, look no further than squirrel hunting in North Carolina. With an abundance of forests and woodlands, the state is home to many different species of squirrels. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, there’s something for everyone when it comes to squirrel hunting in North Carolina. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best tips and techniques for successful squirrel hunting in the state.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in North Carolina
Squirrel hunting is a popular pastime in North Carolina, and there are many laws in place to regulate this activity. Here are some of the most important things to know about squirrel hunting laws in North Carolina:
- Hunters must have a valid hunting license in order to hunt squirrels in North Carolina.
- The season for squirrel hunting runs from September 1st through February 28th.
- There is a daily bag limit of 10 squirrels per hunter.
- All hunters must wear blaze orange or camo when hunting during the open season.
- Squirrels may only be hunted with firearms, archery equipment, or trapping devices.
- It is illegal to bait or otherwise lure squirrels while hunting.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in North Carolina: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in North Carolina?
The quick answer is no, you do not need a license to hunt squirrels in North Carolina. However, there are some regulations that you should be aware of before heading out into the woods. For instance, it is illegal to shoot any game animal with a gun larger than a .22 caliber rimfire. Additionally, all hunters must wear at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange material on their head, back, and chest combined while hunting during daylight hours from November 1 through January 31.
If you are planning on hunting on public lands, such as a state park or game lands, you will need to purchase a North Carolina Public Hunting License. These licenses can be purchased online or at any N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries office or Wildlife Service Agent. The cost of the license is $19 for residents and $51 for non-residents.
Squirrel hunting is a great way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of North Carolina’s forests and wildlife. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a safe and successful hunt.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in North Carolina (NC)
In North Carolina, squirrel hunting season generally runs from mid-August to early February. However, there are some exceptions depending on the county you plan to hunt in. For example, in Dare County, squirrel hunting season opens on October 1st and runs through March 31st.
If you’re planning on hunting squirrels in North Carolina, make sure to check the specific regulations for the county you’ll be hunting in. You can find this information on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s website.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, you can only hunt squirrels during daylight hours. This is because they are nocturnal animals and are most active at night.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in North Carolina
The bag limit for squirrel hunting in North Carolina is four (4) per day. A person may take no more than ten (10) squirrels per license year. There is no closed season for hunting squirrels with a firearm, but there is a daily bag limit. Hunting with dogs is permitted from October 1 – February 28. From March 1 – September 30, the use of dogs is prohibited.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in North Carolina
In North Carolina, there are two main ways to hunt squirrels legally. The first is with a firearm, and the second is with a trap.
If you choose to hunt with a firearm, you will need to obtain a hunting license from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. You can either buy a one-day or seven-day license or an annual license if you plan to hunt multiple times throughout the year. Once you have your license, you can purchase a permit that allows you to hunt on public lands, such as state parks or game lands.
If you would prefer to use a trap to catch squirrels, you will need to obtain a trapping license from the Commission. You can purchase either a one-time permit or an annual trapping license. Once you have your license, you can set traps on public lands with permission from the landowner.
Whether you choose to hunt with a firearm or trap, it is important to follow all of the regulations set forth by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission in order to stay legal.
Can you use dogs to hunt squirrels in North Carolina?
Yes, you can use dogs to hunt squirrels in North Carolina. There are a few things to keep in mind when doing so, however. First, you’ll need to make sure that your dog is trained and well-behaved. Squirrels can be quick and nimble, so you’ll want a dog that can keep up and won’t chase other animals or get distracted easily.
Second, you’ll need to be aware of the squirrel hunting seasons in North Carolina. The early season typically runs from mid-September to early November, while the late season typically runs from late December through February. Make sure you check the hunting regulations for the specific county or region where you’ll be hunting before heading out.
Finally, be prepared for some challenging terrain when squirrel hunting with dogs in North Carolina. Many areas of the state are heavily forested, so you and your dog will likely be doing a lot of hiking off-trail. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and pack plenty of water and snacks for both of you.
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in North Carolina?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle in North Carolina as long as you follow the state’s hunting regulations. You will need to purchase a hunting license and make sure that you are familiar with the state’s hunting laws before heading out. If you are planning on hunting with a firearm, you will need to be aware of the state’s firearm regulations as well.
Final Thoughts
As the season comes to a close, we reflect on another successful year of hunting squirrels in North Carolina. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to share this experience with our friends and family.
We could not have asked for better weather or company. Each day in the woods was filled with laughter, good food, and great memories. We are already looking forward to next year!
Thank you for following along on our adventure. We hope you enjoyed reading about it as much as we enjoyed living it. From all of us here at Squirrel Hunting HQ, happy hunting!
