Hunting for Snowshoe Hares in the Northern States

Hunting for Snowshoe Hares in the Northern States: A Complete Guide

Snowshoe hares are an iconic small-game species of the northern forests. From the Great Lakes to New England and across the northern Rockies, these hardy hares thrive in deep snow, dense conifer cover, and cold weather that keeps many hunters indoors. Their unpredictable bursts, seasonal color change, and preference for thick habitat make them exciting and accessible quarry for hunters of all experience levels.

This guide breaks down the best techniques, gear, dog strategies, and safety considerations for snowshoe hare hunting. Whether you're exploring new small-game opportunities or browsing guided hunts for bigger adventures, you can compare vetted outfitters through Find A Hunt to plan your next trip confidently.

Understanding Snowshoe Hare Habitat & Behavior

Snowshoe hares prefer dense, tangled habitats that offer escape cover from predators.

Prime Habitat Features

• Young conifer stands (spruce, fir, balsam)

• Regenerating clearcuts with thick understory

• Alder, willow, and dogwood thickets

• Cedar swamps and bog edges

• Areas with deep snow and abundant ground cover

Seasonal Behavior

• Winter: Hares turn white for camouflage and rely heavily on dense conifer cover.

• Late season: Feeding sign becomes obvious—look for nipped twigs and droppings.

• Early morning & late afternoon: Peak movement periods.

Knowing where snowshoe hares feed and shelter is critical for targeted hunts.

Essential Gear for Snowshoe Hare Hunting

Firearms

Snowshoe hares are typically hunted at close range.

• .22 LR rifles: Precise and quiet, ideal for stationary hares

• Shotguns: 20- or 12-gauge with #6 or #7½ shot for quick flushes

Clothing

Winter hunts demand durable, weather-appropriate layers:

• Insulated waterproof boots

• Snow camo or white outer layers

• Wool or synthetic base layers

• Waterproof gloves and gaiters

Accessories

• Snowshoes for navigating deep drifts

• Game vest with roomy pockets

• Handwarmers for cold starts

• Binoculars for spotting hares against snow

Hunting with Dogs: The Most Effective Method

Beagles are legendary for snowshoe hare hunting.

Why Beagles Excel

• Persistent tracking noses

• Ability to follow cold and warm scent in snow

• Steady pursuit that brings hares looping back to hunters

Dog Handling Tips

• Spread hunters along escape loops

• Listen for changes in barking cadence—indicates direction shifts

• Keep communication clear with partners to maintain safe lanes

Snowshoe hares almost always circle back during a chase, giving well-positioned hunters recurring shot opportunities.

Proven Techniques for Snowshoe Hare Hunting

1. Still-Hunting & Tracking

Ideal when snow is fresh and quiet.

• Move slowly through thick conifer cover

• Watch for hare tracks weaving between saplings

• Pause often—hares rely on camouflage and may sit tight

2. Busting Brush

For hunters without dogs:

• Push through dense cover or young regrowth

• Kick brush piles or thickets

• Expect explosive flushes at close range

3. Tracking After Fresh Snow

A single day-old snowfall lays a perfect canvas:

• Follow fresh tracks into feeding or bedding cover

• Look for tracks that avoid doubling back—indicates a hare nearby

• Move with caution to avoid blowing out close opportunities

4. Targeting Feeding Areas

Hares leave clear winter sign:

• Cut saplings

• Nipped twigs

• Concentrated droppings

• Torn-up snow around shrub patches

Find the feed, and hares will be close.

Shot Placement & Ethical Considerations

• Rifles: Head or high-shoulder shots on stationary hares

• Shotguns: Center-mass on flushing hares

Avoid taking questionable shots into thick brush where visibility of partners or dogs is limited.

Field Care & Cooking Snowshoe Hare

Field Care

• Dress hares soon after harvest

• Keep carcasses cool—winter temps help

• Remove pellets and debris from the hide promptly

Cooking

Snowshoe hare meat is dark and flavorful, excellent in:

• Slow-cooked stews

• Braises with vegetables and herbs

• Roasts and pot pies

• Rich sauces or wine reductions

Brining or slow cooking helps tenderize older hares.

Safety Considerations for Winter Hunts

Snowshoe hare country can be remote and physically demanding.

• Know snow depth and ice conditions

• Carry navigation tools and spare batteries

• Stay aware of frostbite and hypothermia risks

• Communicate shooting lanes clearly when hunting with dogs

• Let someone know your route and expected return time

Winter hunts require preparation as much as skill.

FAQs: Hunting Snowshoe Hares

When is the best time to hunt?

Early mornings after fresh snow offer the best visibility and tracks.

Do snowshoe hares really change color?

Yes—they’re brown or gray in summer and white in winter for camouflage.

Can I hunt them without dogs?

Absolutely. Still-hunting, tracking, and brush-busting are all effective.

What’s the average shot distance?

Typically 10–35 yards depending on method and habitat density.

Are they good eating?

Yes—snowshoe hare provides rich, flavorful meat ideal for stews and slow cooks.

Plan Your Northern Small-Game Hunt

Snowshoe hare hunting blends winter adventure with classic small-game action, offering fun and challenge in equal measure. With good tracking skills, dog work, and the right cold-weather gear, you can enjoy consistent success in the northern woods.

If you're ready to explore more hunting opportunities or book a guided trip, compare trusted outfitters today through our hunt marketplace.