What Do I Need to Take Squirrel Hunting?
Before you go squirrel hunting, you need to make sure you have the right gear for the job. Here are some essentials you should have with you: Binoculars, Rimfire rifles, and comfortable, washable squirrel hunting bags. Also, you should know what to wear in order to stay comfortable while you are on the hunt. Read on to learn more about the best gear. You can also read more about active and passive hunting.
Table of Contents
Binoculars
Investing in a good pair of binoculars for squirrel hunting can improve your chances of catching a squirrel. Binoculars are extremely useful for identifying and tracking squirrels, especially in low-light conditions. While hunting dogs can be very effective, they can be hard to handle and are not as portable as binoculars. Fortunately, there are many good brands of binoculars on the market, and you can pick one that meets your specific needs and budget.
Budget binoculars are an excellent choice for hunting, as they are inexpensive and come with a carry case and lens covers. You can find great models for very little money on Amazon. These models are very versatile and are great for long-range viewing. Some are even waterproof, so you can use them in rainy conditions. But bear in mind that better optics mean more money. Regardless of the price, budget binoculars can also be very effective for squirrel hunting.
Durable, comfortable, and washable squirrel hunting bags
Whether you’re going squirrel hunting on a regular basis or are an avid hunter, you’ll need a bag that keeps your gear dry and comfortable while still being large enough for your gear and personal items. While a squirrel bag should be large enough for your gear, it should not be too heavy, and it should have multiple pockets for your valuables. Some popular bags include overnight hiking packs, waterfowler’s blind bags, and military grade field punches.
In addition to durable, comfortable, and washable bags, it’s a good idea to have a few extras. A few extra boxes of.22 rounds, and an extra box of ammo, like a magazine, are essential for squirrel hunting. For extra rounds, pack a small plastic bag with a few rounds and a box of ammunition. Make sure to bring a rifle and ammunition. A small rimfire rifle is ideal for squirrel hunting. A shotgun that shoots at a higher caliber can be dangerous.
Rimfire rifles
If you’re a devoted hunter of squirrels, you might want to consider buying a rimfire rifle. This is a classic American pastime, and a rimfire Henry is an excellent choice. You can use these guns for squirrel, varmint, or predator hunting. Here are a few options:
The most effective way to take down squirrels with a rimfire rifle is to set your zero for a certain range and adjust it when necessary. Even at 15 yards, a rimfire shot to a squirrel’s bushy tail is deadly. If you’re working with a longer distance, a hyper-velocity.22LR can reach the kill zone. If you want to be even more accurate, a rimfire shot will kill a squirrel between 10 and 60 yards.
Passive and active hunting
There are two basic types of squirrel hunting: active and passive. Active hunting involves stalking your prey through the woods. This method requires patience, because squirrels have the ability to run from their hiding places and show up at any moment. If possible, wear camouflage or neutral clothes to make yourself less noticeable. You can also bring a miniature canine to help you lure them into range. Both techniques have their benefits and draw different results.
The first method of active squirrel hunting is to set up a stand near a tree that offers abundant food. It’s best to use an archery weapon, such as a bow. Aiming for the head is the most effective way to take down a squirrel in a single shot and minimize damage to its body. You can also use a bow if you have some practice. In both methods, you must get permission from the landowner before hunting on his property.
Squirrel calls
You can go squirrel hunting if you have a tree in your backyard, but if you’re not sure what you need to do, start by knowing what to look for in squirrels. A squirrel’s bushy tail, shiny eye, and a small bump on the tree trunk or branch will help you identify the animal. Listen for scratching noises, gnawing sounds, and falling nut hulls.
You will also need a shotgun and some boots. While you don’t necessarily need camouflage clothing, it will help you blend in better. Some people also wear turkey vests, which are great for squirrel hunting because they act as a seat cushion. Small game vests are also useful for squirrel hunting. And if you’re not sure how to hunt a squirrel, don’t forget to pack some snacks.
Squirrel-hunting dogs
Before taking your dog out for squirrel hunting, consider what kind of environment you’ll be working in. If you’ll be working in a small woodlot, a feist might be ideal, while a mountain cur will be better for covering more ground. There are also many breeders to choose from, so if you’re looking for a specific breed, try Squirrel Dog Central. Be aware, though, that finished dogs can be expensive.
To start out with, you’ll need a sturdy dog box or crate for your dog, durable leads, and a game pouch. Other essentials include first aid supplies, a blaze orange vest with a game pouch, and a shotgun or rifle. Squirrel dogs are bred specifically to go after squirrels and have undergone extensive training for generations. You can use the skills of a reputable breeder, or consider a puppy’s training experience.

Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.