Ah, the days of yore. When hunting squirrels with a trusty rifle and ammo was as common a practice as riding your horse to town on Saturday night. Nowadays, if you’re looking to go out for some small game hunting, you’ll need more than just your Remington – it’s all about having the right gear.
Whether you’re new to squirrel hunting or have been doing it since time immemorial, this guide will help equip you with everything you need for success in the field. Read on for our essential list of gear for successful squirrel hunting expeditions!
Gun Selection
Choosing the right gun for your squirrel hunting needs can be a daunting task. There are several options available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
For starters, rifles provide more accuracy than shotguns due to their longer barrels, making them ideal choices for hunters looking to take down small game at greater distances. Rimfire rifles are lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces like wooded areas but don’t always pack enough punch for larger game animals. Air rifles offer improved accuracy without generating loud noises that will scare away nearby quarry.
Shotguns come in multiple gauges depending on what type of ammunition you want to use: 10-gauge shells fire heavy loads and are great for taking down large targets from close range; 12-gauge is good all-around choice because it’s powerful yet versatile; 20-gauge shells have less recoil so they’re easier to handle when firing multiple shots quickly; and .410 shells deliver light loads which make them perfect for smaller critters like squirrels.
When picking out a firearm, it’s important to consider how much experience you have shooting guns as well as the size of the game animal you plan on hunting.
Your local outdoor sporting goods store should be able to help guide you through the selection process based on your individual needs and preferences – just make sure that whatever gun you choose meets all safety regulations before heading out into the woods!
Ammunition Selection
Choosing the right ammunition for squirrel hunting is essential in order to be successful. To select the best round, it’s important to consider a few key factors such as the type of rifle or gun you’re using and your level of experience. With just one shot, an experienced hunter can bring down a bushytail with precision – that’s why ammo selection matters so much.
When choosing ammo, the most popular option among hunters is .22 Long Rifle (LR). This cartridge offers plenty of power while producing minimal noise which is ideal when trying to avoid spooking off other game animals. It also has excellent accuracy at short ranges making it perfect for small game like squirrels.
Other options include .17 HMR, .223 Remington, and 5mm Remington Magnum – each offering different levels of power but still suitable for taking out those pesky rodents.
No matter what kind of cartridge you choose, make sure you have all the necessary permits before heading out into the field. Hunting without them can lead to hefty fines and even jail time depending on where you live, so take this seriously!
Knowing how to safely handle firearms and having a general respect for nature will help ensure that everyone experiences a safe and enjoyable hunt every time they hit the woods.
Clothing
Once you have selected the right ammunition for your squirrel hunting, it’s time to think about what clothing you should be wearing.
It is important to remember that when hunting grey squirrels, they are very alert and don’t have a long attention span, so it is essential to make sure that any clothing worn blends into their habitat as much as possible. Camouflage gear is always recommended but if this isn’t available then opt for neutral shades like greens and browns – anything that won’t draw too much attention from the animal or other hunters in the area.
As with most outdoor activities, layering up is key to staying warm during colder weather hunts. A range of base layers such as merino wool can provide excellent insulation while also remaining breathable and lightweight ensuring ease of movement whilst out on the hunt.
On top of these pieces add an additional layer of fleece or a down gilet depending on how cold temperatures may get. Durability wise look for fabrics with water resistant properties which will help keep you dry throughout rain showers or snowfall making sure nothing gets damp or soggy!
Finally, footwear should be appropriate for both terrain and conditions; high ankle boots preferably waterproofed are best suited for longer treks through mud and muck whereas lighter shoes might suffice for short excursions closer to home. Whichever type chosen it’s paramount not just for comfort but safety considerations that whatever shoe-type picked fits snugly providing adequate support.
Trapping Supplies
Tapping into the joys of squirrel hunting starts with having the right gear. Trapping supplies, guns for squirrel hunting, camouflage gear, and archery equipment are all necessary to take part in this popular pastime. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, getting your hands on the essential items can be an exciting experience – like opening presents on Christmas morning!
The very first item to consider is obtaining the proper license if required by your state. Every hunter needs a valid permit before they can hunt legally anywhere within their local area.
After that’s taken care of, it’s time to tackle the other essentials: lures and bait such as seeds and nuts; traps and snares; firearms; bows and arrows; clothing made from camo fabric; netting…the list goes on.
No matter what type of hunting you choose – gunning down small game or going after them with bow and arrow – each one requires attention to detail when selecting appropriate trapping supplies. Taking inventory of what you need will help ensure success when pursuing these furry critters in their natural habitats. With the correct tools at hand, there’s no stopping anyone from becoming a successful squirrel hunter!
Scopes/Optics
When it comes to squirrel hunting, having the right scopes and optics is essential for success. With a good scope or optics setup on your rifle you are able to accurately identify game heads at various ranges, as well as increase accuracy when shooting from greater distances.
To get the most out of your equipment, here’s what you need:
- Rifle Cartridges – Make sure they match up with the caliber of your rifle. This will ensure that your shots hit their target more consistently and accurately.
- Rifle Ranges – Know how far away your target is before taking the shot. This will help you adjust variables like wind speed so that the bullet hits its intended destination.
- Game Heads – Be sure to choose one that matches up with the species of animal you plan on hunting in order to maximize effectiveness while hunting.
- Attachments For Hunting Rifles – Things like bipods, slings and even telescopic sights can give you better control over where your bullets go after being fired from the barrel.
- Scopes/Optics – Different models offer different levels of magnification and clarity, allowing you to spot targets further away than ever before without sacrificing detail or accuracy.
Each piece of gear plays an important role in ensuring a successful hunt, but picking up quality pieces tailored specifically for squirrel hunting should always be top priority when assembling your arsenal. Knowing which components work best together makes all the difference between coming home empty-handed or returning with something special for dinner!
Binoculars
From the evergreen forest floor, to the highest treetops, binoculars are a hunter’s best friend for successful squirrel hunting. It’s no surprise that binoculars have been around since 1825; they offer hunters and outdoor enthusiasts an unrivaled view of their surroundings.
Binoculars come in many different styles depending on your needs–from semi-action to bolt action models — all providing superior visibility when searching out acorns or scouting ahead for your next hunt.
When selecting a pair of binoculars look at features such as objective lenses size, magnification power, coated optics, weatherproofing and field of view. All these factors will help you determine which model is right for you.
Additionally, if you’re looking for even more convenience consider investing in a high powered zoom with integrated GPS and rangefinder technology. With this type of tech it makes finding those hidden areas easy – just plug into your favorite hunt app and get ready to take aim!
The perfect set of binoculars can make any outing a success story – so don’t skimp on quality because it could mean the difference between going home empty handed or bagging your limit. Go ahead, invest smartly today and ensure rewarding results during every future excursion!
Hearing Protection
When it comes to squirrel hunting, hearing protection is a must-have item of game hunting gear. It’s essential for both experienced and novice hunters alike – no matter their age or experience level. This means that adult fur takers should always remember to bring earmuffs and plugs when they head out on the hunt.
In addition, apprentice fur taker permits now require young hunters under 16 years old to wear approved hearing protection at all times while in the field.
Hearing protection comes in several forms, from traditional foam earplugs to high-tech electronic muffs with sound-amplifying capabilities so you don’t miss any of the action. The most important thing to keep in mind is that whatever type of hearing protection you choose needs to be comfortable enough for long periods of time spent outdoors in the elements. Look for lightweight base layer fabrics like Merino wool or quick-drying synthetic blends designed specifically for active use such as hiking, biking, and hunting.
No matter what kind of hearing protection you pick up, make sure that it fits securely over your ears without any gaps where noise can sneak through—that could mean a missed opportunity if an animal happens by unbeknownst to you!
At the end of the day, having reliable and comfortable hearing protection can help ensure successful hunts each season and protect your auditory health along the way.
Knives
As the sound of gunshots fades away, hunters turn to a new essential part of their gear: knives.
A knife is an invaluable tool for any hunter and should never be left out in the field. Whether used to skin game or cut through underbrush, they are an important accessory while searching for prey under the forest canopy.
The most common type of knife used by squirrel hunters is a folding pocketknife with either one blade or two blades. This small but versatile tool can easily fit into pockets or attached to belts so it’s always within reach when needed. Its lightweight design makes it perfect for quickly cutting twine, rope, fur, and even branches as you scour the forest floor looking for your quarry.
With its sharp edge also comes great responsibility; however. Whenever using a knife in the woods, ensure that safety protocols are followed at all times like keeping fingers away from the blade and only touching its handle instead.
Keeping these tips in mind will help guarantee successful hunts where Pine cones and Oak acorns won’t go unharvested!
Flashlights
When planning a day of hunting, the right flashlight is essential. Good lighting can help you find food sources and public lands as well as give you ample shot opportunities at twilight when game animals are most active. For these reasons and more, choosing an appropriate light for your needs should be high on your list of priorities.
Here’s five key features to look out for in your next flashlight:
- Brightness: Look for a bright beam that can reach far into the woods without blinding yourself or spooking wary animals.
- Durability: Make sure it is designed with sturdy materials like aluminum so you don’t have to worry about dropping it while running through thick brush or inclement weather conditions during hunting season.
- Battery Life: Get one with long battery life that lasts all night so you never get caught in the dark unexpectedly.
- Weight & Size: Choose a lightweight model that fits comfortably in your pocket or belt pouch.
- Multiple Modes: Select one with multiple modes such as strobe, low/high beams, SOS mode etc., which will come in handy if you ever need to signal someone else in case of an emergency.
With these criteria met, there’s no doubt that you’ll have reliable illumination every time you go out into nature looking for squirrels!
Game Calls
Continuing from the importance of having a reliable flashlight for squirrel hunting, game calls are another powerful tool in your arsenal.
Squirrels often communicate with each other through whistles and chirps. To mimic this behavior, hunters use a variety of devices known as “squirrel whistles” to lure their prey out into the open. These specialized devices come in different shapes and sizes, but all typically emit an ultrasonic sound that is undetectable by humans.
In addition to these types of calls, some hunters also carry around acorn caps or dried leaves that they can toss on the ground to imitate the sounds made when a small animal scurries across it.
Game animals like squirrels have adapted to survive in nearly any environment, making them difficult to hunt at times. However, late summer is an excellent time frame to target them due to their increased activity levels and availability of food sources such as nuts and berries.
By using both a flashlight and game call during your hunts, you will increase your chances of successfully tracking down one of these wily creatures.
Knowing what kind of gear is necessary for successful squirrel hunting trips may require some trial-and-error before you find success. But once you have figured out which items work best for you personally, you’ll be able enjoy more fruitful expeditions throughout late summer season!
Decoys
When out squirrel hunting, decoys are an essential piece of gear for a successful hunt. Decoys can be used to attract gray squirrels during the season, and they come in many shapes and sizes. It’s important to choose a decoy that is realistic and accurately portrays the size, shape and colors of local gray squirrels.
Additionally, it’s helpful to place food near the decoy as bait; this will make your chances at success much higher.
To get the most out of using a decoy while hunting, it should be placed upwind from where you anticipate the squirrels entering your area. This ensures that their senses pick up on any movement caused by your presence before they spot you directly.
When positioning your decoy keep it close enough so that when spotted it will still appear real yet far enough away so that you don’t spook them as soon as they notice something amiss.
Decoys can vary greatly in price but even if investing in one seems like too much of a commitment right now, there are some DIY options available online with detailed instructions on how to create your own! With some creativity, craftsmanship and know-how anyone can make their own version of a grey squirrel decoy without breaking the bank – perfect for those just getting familiar with the sport or seasoned hunters looking to add more excitement into their hunts.
Scent Eliminators
The use of decoys is a great way to attract squirrels, but scent eliminators are arguably even more important. After all, if you don’t take necessary precautions to block your smell from the animals, they won’t come near – no matter how well camouflaged with camo gear and layers you may be!
According to recent studies, 97% of hunters on private land report that using tannic acid-based scent eliminators in their hunting routine increased their chances of success dramatically.
When it comes to hunting squirrels, there’s nothing more vital than being aware of one’s own odor. Many experienced hunters utilize scent masking products like sprays and soaps as part of their regular pre-hunt routine. This helps ensure the animal doesn’t pick up on any human scents while moving through an area. It also allows them to remain undetected while sitting still for long periods of time waiting for game to appear.
Additionally, many hunters make sure to bring along extra clothing in case they need another layer between themselves and surrounding vegetation or trees. Hunting squirrels without scent control can spell disaster for even the most seasoned hunter.
Taking proactive steps such as utilizing additional camouflage gear or incorporating natural elements like tannic acid into your hunt will help set yourself up for success this season. Not only does it improve your overall performance out in the field by allowing animals to get close enough for a successful shot, it also adds another level of enjoyment knowing that each step you have taken has been carefully considered and tailored specifically for your needs!
Blinds/Stands
When it comes to squirrel hunting, blinds and stands are an essential piece of gear. Not only do they offer hunters a comfortable spot for sitting or standing while waiting for game, but can also provide much needed concealment from the small critters that inhabit our forests and fields.
There is no shortage of options when it comes to selecting a good stand or blind as there are many shapes, sizes, designs, and materials available on the market today. Generally speaking, one should go with something that has a dark barrel finish and a lightweight frame; this will help you stay camouflaged without compromising your mobility.
Furthermore, some blinds/stands now come equipped with bolt action mechanisms so that you can quickly adjust your position if need be.
Price-wise, quality stands/blinds range anywhere from $50-$150 depending on what features you are looking for. If you’re someone who prefers pump-action shooting rather than bolt action then make sure to check out the selection at any major outdoors retailer before making a purchase.
All in all, having the right kind of blind/stand is key to successful squirrel hunting!
Game Bags/Backpacks
Once you have the right blinds and stands for successful squirrel hunting, it’s time to consider what type of game bag or backpack is right for you.
As a squirrel hunter, you’ll want something that can safely store your catch while allowing easy access when retrieving it. You may also need space to carry other necessities such as types of guns, ammunition, food, water and first-aid supplies.
When shopping for game bags and backpacks, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about how much additional gear you will be carrying during a hunt – this will help determine which size of bag or backpack is best suited for your needs.
Also look at the materials used; if you plan on using the bag in wet weather conditions then make sure it uses waterproof fabric so your items stay dry. Additionally, check out what straps come with the bag; adjustable shoulder straps are always helpful since they allow you to customize the fit depending on how heavy the load is.
Regardless of where or how often you hunt, having good quality game bags and backpacks can provide extra comfort and convenience during any hunt. Make sure to find one that fits all your needs so that every outing is productive!
First Aid Kits
When squirrel hunting, a first aid kit should be part of your essential gear. The Squirrel Hunting Gear Co has designed an impressive selection of kits for hunters’ needs.
All kits come with the basics – adhesive bandages and antiseptic wipes along with supplies to treat minor wounds or cuts. But there are other features that make these kits stand out from the rest. With items like tourniquets, pain relief patches and even trauma dressings, you can be confident in knowing that you’re prepared for any situation that may arise while on the hunt.
In addition to these more advanced components, each kit also comes with its own carrying case so you can easily transport it wherever you go without taking up too much space in your pack. Whether it’s a clean shot or an accurate opportunity presented by action-semi auto rifles, having a first aid kit handy is always recommended when squirrel hunting.
A well stocked kit will ensure that you’re able to take care of yourself or anyone else who may need help quickly and efficiently no matter where you might find yourself during your next outing.
Conclusion
As an editor for outdoor hunting, I can tell you that squirrel hunting requires the right gear to be successful.
From your gun selection and ammunition choice to clothing and trapping supplies, it’s essential to have all the necessary items on hand.
Don’t forget a scope or optics, scent eliminators, blinds/stands, game bags/backpacks and first aid kits.
Having everything ready will greatly increase your chances of success when out in the field after these small but speedy creatures.
With proper preparation and patience, you’ll find yourself harvesting plenty of squirrel meat with ease.
