Hunting Black-Tailed Jackrabbits: Proven Methods for Western Small-Game Hunters
Black-tailed jackrabbits are one of the most exciting small-game animals to hunt across the American West. Found in deserts, sagebrush flats, and open grasslands, these big-eared hares offer fast-paced action, challenging shots, and great off-season practice for big-game hunters. Their sharp eyesight, unpredictable sprinting patterns, and tendency to hold tight before exploding into motion make them a rewarding test of skill.
Whether you're spot-and-stalking through sagebrush, glassing evening feeding areas, or running dogs where legal, this guide breaks down the best strategies, habitat clues, and gear setups for consistent success. For hunters looking to expand into guided hunts or explore Western small-game opportunities, visit Find A Hunt to compare outfitters and book with confidence.
Understanding Black-Tailed Jackrabbit Habitat
Black-tailed jackrabbits thrive in wide-open country across the West, typically in arid and semi-arid areas.
Prime Jackrabbit Habitat
Look for:
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Sagebrush flats and desert basins
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Open grasslands with sparse cover
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Mesquite and creosote plains
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Agricultural edges with alfalfa or winter wheat
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Rolling foothills with scattered shrubs
Jackrabbits rely on their vision and speed—meaning they prefer open terrain where they can detect predators and escape quickly.
Daily Movement Patterns
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Dawn & dusk: Most active feeding periods
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Midday: Jackrabbits sit tight in shade or shallow depressions
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Evenings: Move to fields or edges to graze
Understanding these rhythms helps you plan effective ambushes and spot-and-stalk routes.
Essential Gear for Jackrabbit Hunting
Firearm Choices
Jackrabbits can be hunted effectively with:
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.22 LR: Close shots, quiet, minimal meat damage
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.17 HMR or .22 WMR: Flatter shooting for longer ranges
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Small-caliber centerfires (.223, .204): Longer shots in open desert, though meat damage increases
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Shotguns (#6 or #7½ shot): Ideal for jump shooting in brushy terrain
Optics
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8x or 10x binoculars for glassing basins
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Small rangefinder for judging open-country distances
Clothing
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Lightweight, breathable layers for desert heat
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Neutral or earth-tone camo
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Wide-brim hat and sunglasses for sun exposure
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Tough boots for rocky and thorny terrain
Other Helpful Gear
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Hydration pack
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Knife or small game shears
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Small game vest or pouch
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Shooting sticks or bipod for long-range rimfire shots
Scouting for Black-Tailed Jackrabbits
Look for:
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Fresh droppings (small, round pellets)
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Tracks in soft sand
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Trails between bedding cover and feeding fields
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Shaded depressions under sage or mesquite
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Evening movement near agricultural edges
Glass at dawn or dusk to find feeding rabbits silhouetted against open flats.
Best Hunting Techniques for Black-Tailed Jackrabbits
1. Spot-and-Stalk in Open Country
A highly effective method in sagebrush and desert plains.
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Glass hillsides and flats early or late in the day
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Move slowly and use brush for cover
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Take advantage of natural dips and washes to close distance
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Expect shots from 30–150 yards depending on terrain
2. Jump Shooting Through Brush
Jackrabbits often hold tight until you're very close.
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Walk slowly through sage, edges, or brush pockets
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When a rabbit flushes, shoulder your gun smoothly—no rushed swings
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Shotguns or quick-handling rimfires excel here
3. Still Hunting at First Light
Jackrabbits feed aggressively at dawn.
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Set up near food sources like crop edges, green grasses, or irrigated fields
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Watch for silhouettes moving along the horizon
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Take advantage of their routine morning routes
4. Calling (Where Effective)
Predator calls can sometimes stop or turn a jackrabbit.
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Use squeaks or distress calls to freeze rabbits momentarily
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Works best in open terrain where rabbits hesitate before running again
5. Hunting with Dogs (Where Legal)
Running hounds is a traditional method in some regions.
Always check local regulations—rules vary widely.
Shot Placement & Shooting Tips
Shot Placement
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Rimfire hunts: Head or chest shots offer quick, clean kills
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Shotgun hunts: Center the birdshot pattern on the chest and front half
Shooting Tips
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Lead slightly on running rabbits
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Practice on moving clay targets to improve reflexes
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Kneel or use sticks for stable long shots
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Expect erratic movement—jackrabbits zig-zag unpredictably
Field Care & Cooking
Jackrabbit meat can be excellent when handled properly.
Field Care
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Cool quickly—desert heat spoils meat fast
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Skin while warm to make it easier
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Rinse lightly and keep clean in a game bag
Cooking Methods
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Braised jackrabbit stew
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Slow cooker with herbs and root vegetables
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Grilled backstraps marinated overnight
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Traditional chile-based Southwestern dishes
Jackrabbit pairs well with bold seasonings and slow-cooking techniques.
Safety Considerations
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Hydrate—desert hunts can dehydrate you quickly
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Know your backdrop when shooting in open terrain
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Be aware of rattlesnakes and cactus hazards
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Carry navigation tools—large basins look deceptively similar
FAQs: Hunting Black-Tailed Jackrabbits
When is the best time to hunt jackrabbits?
Dawn and dusk offer peak movement; midday hunts focus on jump shooting shaded cover.
Are jackrabbits good to eat?
Yes—especially when braised or slow-cooked. Younger rabbits are the most tender.
What’s the best caliber?
For quiet, close shots: .22 LR
For open country: .17 HMR or .22 WMR
For long-range: light centerfires
Do jackrabbits travel far?
They live in relatively small home areas but sprint long distances when flushed.
Do I need camouflage?
Neutral, earth-tone clothing works well; heavy camo isn’t required in open country.
Plan Your Next Western Small-Game Hunt
Hunting black-tailed jackrabbits is fast-paced, fun, and a fantastic way to sharpen your field skills. With the right gear, smart glassing, and a solid approach to open-country tactics, you can enjoy consistent action throughout the season.
If you're exploring small-game or larger Western hunts, compare trusted outfitters and book your next adventure through our hunt marketplace.
