Hunting season is upon us and if you’re looking for a new challenge, why not try your hand at squirrel hunting? Though they may seem like a small game, hunting squirrels can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to hunt squirrels in Oregon, as well as what type of equipment you will need and the best time of year to hunt them. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner looking to try something new, read on for everything you need to know about squirrel hunting in Oregon.
Squirrel Hunting Laws in Oregon
In Oregon, there are laws regulating the hunting of squirrels. These laws vary depending on the game species involved, and whether the hunt is taking place on public or private land.
The general rules for hunting squirrels in Oregon are as follows: a person must have a valid hunting license, and they must adhere to all bag limits and season dates set forth by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). It is also important to note that different types of squirrels have different season dates, so it is important to check before heading out on a hunt.
There are two main types of squirrels in Oregon: the Douglas squirrel (Tamiasciurus douglasii) and the American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). The Douglas squirrel is the most common type of squirrel found in Oregon, and they can be hunted throughout the year. The American red squirrel is less common, but they can also be hunted during the same time period as the Douglas squirrel.
When hunting on public land in Oregon, there are some additional rules that must be followed. These include obeying posted signs and closure notices, respecting property boundaries, and only using firearms during legal shooting hours. For more information on these regulations, please consult the ODFW website or speak with a representative from their office.
Related: Raccoon Hunting in Oregon: An Ultimate Guide
Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Oregon?
In Oregon, you do not need a license to hunt squirrels. However, there are some restrictions on where and how you can hunt them. You can only hunt squirrels on public land with a shotgun or air rifle. You cannot use bait or dogs when hunting squirrels.
Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Oregon
There are two squirrel hunting seasons in Oregon: the early season and the late season. The early season runs from August 1st through December 31st. The late season runs from January 1st through July 31st.
The best time to hunt squirrels is in the early morning or late evening when they are most active. However, you can also find them during the day if you know where to look. Look for them in areas with a lot of trees and cover, such as forests, wooded areas, and parks.
Squirrels are most active during the fall and winter months, so these are the best times to hunt them. However, you can still find them during the spring and summer if you know where to look.
When hunting squirrels, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and be respectful of other hunters and hikers. Make sure you are familiar with the area you will be hunting in and always follow safety guidelines.
Can you hunt squirrels at night in Oregon?
In Oregon, you can hunt squirrels at night if you have a hunting permit and follow the rules for nighttime hunting. Nighttime hunting is allowed from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise. You must use a flashlight or other artificial light when hunting at night. You can only shoot animals that are actively feeding or damaging property.
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Oregon
Bag limits for hunting Squirrel in Oregon are as follows:
- One squirrel per day,
- Three squirrels per season,
- The possession limit is six squirrels.
Squirrels can be hunted year-round in Oregon, but the best time to hunt them is during the fall and winter months when they are most active. During the spring and summer, they tend to be more elusive and difficult to find.
Legal ways to hunt Squirrels in Oregon
There are many ways to hunt squirrels in Oregon, but only a few of them are legal. The most common way to hunt squirrels is with a shotgun, but you can also use a .22 caliber rifle. If you want to use a bow and arrow, you must have a valid hunting license. You can also trap squirrels, but you must have a valid trapping license.
The best time to hunt squirrels is in the early morning or late evening when they are most active. You should wear camouflage clothing and be very quiet when hunting so as not to scare the animals away. When looking for squirrels, look for trees with nuts or acorns, as these will be their food source. You can also look for areas where there are fresh signs of digging or chewing.
If you do kill a squirrel, make sure that you properly clean and dress the animal so that it can be eaten safely. Squirrel meat is lean and nutritious, and makes for a great addition to any meal!
Can you use dogs to hunt Squirrel in Oregon?
There are many ways to go about hunting squirrels in Oregon, but one of the most effective and fun ways is to use dogs. This method is often used by hunters who want to take down multiple squirrels at once, as dogs can flush them out of hiding and into the open.
If you’re interested in using dogs to hunt squirrels in Oregon, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, make sure you have permission from the landowner before releasing your dog onto their property. Second, be aware of the regulations surrounding dog hunting in Oregon – specifically, that dogs must be on a leash while being used for hunting purposes. Finally, remember that not all dogs are cut out for hunting – some may be too timid or skittish to be effective. If you’re not sure whether or not your dog will be up for the task, it’s best to consult with a professional trainer or hunter beforehand.
With these things in mind, using dogs to hunt squirrels in Oregon can be a great way to up your game and bag more of these pesky critters. So get out there and give it a try – your four-legged friend will thank you for it!
Can you hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Oregon?
Yes, you can hunt squirrels from a vehicle in Oregon, but there are some restrictions. You can only shoot from a moving vehicle if the animal is not visible from the road and you are not within 500 feet of any occupied dwelling. Additionally, you must have a valid hunting license and tags to do so.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, squirrel hunting in Oregon can be a great experience if you know where to look and what to expect. There are many different types of squirrels in Oregon. Therefore, make sure you do your research before heading out into the woods. With a little preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable hunt.
