Understanding Jackrabbit Behavior
Jackrabbits aren’t true rabbits—they’re hares. That means:
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They rely on running, not hiding in burrows
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They hold tight until pressured, then explode into a sprint
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They use open terrain and light cover for visibility
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They feed mostly at dawn, dusk, and night
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They bed in small depressions or brush clusters during the day
Their incredible speed and erratic escape routes make them a test of both reaction time and marksmanship.
Where to Find Jackrabbits in Open Country
Prime Habitats
Jackrabbits thrive in:
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Sagebrush flats
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Desert scrub and cactus country
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Prairie grasslands
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Juniper and mesquite edges
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Edges of crop fields (alfalfa, wheat, and hay)
They use habitat edges for feeding and stay near thick brush during heat or pressure.
Signs to Look For
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Tracks in soft soil
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Small “forms” where they bed in grass or brush
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Droppings around feeding zones
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Freshly clipped vegetation near ag edges
Glassing early or late in the day is the fastest way to find active jackrabbits.
Best Times to Hunt Jackrabbits
Early Morning
Cool temperatures keep jackrabbits active and more visible. Great for spot-and-stalk.
Late Afternoon
Another productive window as hares emerge to feed.
Midday in Winter
Cold or overcast weather keeps rabbits moving longer.
Avoid Hot, Midday Summer Hunts
Jackrabbits bed down tightly in shade, making them harder to locate.
Field Techniques for Open-Terrain Jackrabbit Hunts
1. Spot-and-Stalk Glassing
Use binoculars to scan:
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Shaded brush pockets
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Fencelines and ditch edges
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Grassy depressions
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Low sage and greasewood flats
Once you spot a hare, plan a route using terrain dips, brush, or drainage lines to get within shooting range.
2. Walking Flushes
A classic method—walk steadily through good habitat and watch for hares to burst from cover.
Tips:
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Keep your gun ready
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Expect rabbits to zig-zag or run straight for long distances
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Work into the wind to keep them from seeing you early
3. Vehicle-to-Boot Spotting
In vast open country, hunters often:
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Drive ranch roads slowly
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Glass from the vehicle
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Make short stalks on rabbits spotted ahead
Legal and ethical only where local laws allow—always verify first.
4. Snow Tracking
Fresh snow reveals rabbit trails clearly. Follow hopping tracks to feeding areas or bedding forms.
5. Shots on the Run
Jackrabbits frequently bolt when pressured. Practice:
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Lead the rabbit slightly
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Keep a smooth swing
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Take shots only with a safe backstop
Open terrain often provides excellent visibility and safe shooting angles.
Gear for Jackrabbit Hunting
Firearms
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.22 LR: Ideal for stationary or slowly moving rabbits
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.17 HMR or .22 WMR: Flat-shooting for longer shots in open country
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Shotguns (20 or 12 gauge): Best for running shots in brushy or mixed terrain
Optics
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Lightweight binoculars (8x–10x) for spotting
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Simple scope (2–7x or fixed 4x) on rimfires
Clothing
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Lightweight boots for distance walking
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Earth-tone or camo clothing
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Sun protection for desert hunts (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
Additional Gear
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Small game vest
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Knife or shears for field dressing
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Plenty of water—desert conditions dehydrate quickly
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Gloves in prickly terrain
Shot Placement & Ethical Harvest
Aim for:
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Head or neck on stationary rabbits
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Front chest during running shots
Avoid long, rushed shots—open terrain makes misses easy and ensures poorly hit animals can escape far.
Safety Considerations
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Always be aware of cattle, ranch houses, and other hunters—distance shooting requires caution
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Bring extra water in hot climates
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Watch for rattlesnakes in desert regions
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Know property boundaries; much jackrabbit country is mixed public/private land
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Wear eye protection when pushing through brush
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Moving too fast—you’ll walk past bedded rabbits
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Taking long, unsupported shots in the wind
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Ignoring edge habitat—transitions hold more rabbits
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Overpacking—light gear keeps you mobile
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Not glassing enough—jackrabbits blend incredibly well
Success comes from patience and sharp observation.
FAQs About Jackrabbit Hunting
Q: Are jackrabbits edible?
Yes—young jacks are excellent table fare, especially in stews. Older hares are good when slow-cooked.
Q: Do they return to the same areas?
Often. Productive flats, edges, and feeding pockets usually reload quickly.
Q: How far do jackrabbits run when spooked?
Sometimes hundreds of yards—they rely on speed and distance.
Q: Can I hunt jackrabbits without a dog?
Absolutely. Most jackrabbit hunts are done solo or with a partner.
Q: What’s the best firearm for beginners?
A shotgun (20 gauge) is very forgiving on fast-moving rabbits.
Final Thoughts
Hunting jackrabbits in open terrain is fast, fun, and accessible—perfect for new hunters, small-game enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys miles of big country. With smart glassing, patient movement, and the right firearm setup, you’ll find consistent action in sagebrush flats, desert basins, and prairie grasslands.
To compare outfitters who offer small-game or varmint hunts in open terrain, visit Find A Hunt and start planning your next high-energy adventure.
