by Nicholas Widzins

Created on: December 03, 2010   Last Updated: December 04, 2010

Squirrel hunting is great for many people because it is easy, cheap, and is fun. It does not require any specialized gear or any common gear at all. All you need is the clothes on your back, a small gun or bow and arrow, and a knife.

                There are two main squirrels to hunt in the United States. There are Gray squirrels and Red squirrels, also known as Fox squirrels. Both squirrels are easy to find and hunt. If you want to hunt gray squirrels go to a place that has a lot of oak and other nut trees. If you are looking for Red squirrels find a lot of pine trees. I prefer Gray squirrels because they are about twice the size, but I will also shoot Red squirrels if given the chance.

                A person could either use a small caliber gun like a .22 or a bow and arrow. Most people prefer to use a .22 because it is easier than the bow and arrow. .22 is nice because the ammunition is cheap, they are quite, and they don’t put a big hole in the squirrel. If you want to use a bow and arrow I don’t recommend using a Brodhead. You can buy special tips for small game that are blunt and won’t put a hole in the animal, or you could use a field tip. No matter what weapon you use, I recommend target shooting a lot before you head out.

                Squirrel hunting does not require much gear. You need clothes that will keep you warm if it is cold. The key is to dress in layers and not just wear one big layer. You can also bring calls but it is not necessary. You must bring a knife no matter what you are hunting you need a knife.

                When you get out in the woods, find a good place to hunt by some trees. Then find a place to sit. You need to sit quietly and be still. After about 20 to 30 minutes you should start to see squirrels. Before you shoot, make sure you can hit it. If you miss you will scare the animals and they will run and hide. Then you will have to wait again before they come back out.

                Make sure you know and follow your local laws. It is important to follow the laws; they are there to protect the animals from going extinct. It is also not fair to people who do follow the laws, and you can get into a lot of trouble if you do not follow them.

                Squirrel hunting is a fun and easy sport that has been around for century’s and will be here for many more. It is fun for people of all ages and backgrounds. Remember it is up to the people that hunt to help keep the sport around.

Learn more about this author, Nicholas Widzins.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.