Hunting for Squirrels in the Fall: Best Practices

Introduction: Why Fall Is Prime Time for Squirrel Hunting

As leaves turn and acorns fall, the woods come alive with movement — and few hunts are as classic, accessible, or satisfying as chasing squirrels in the fall. Whether you’re after fox squirrels in oak ridges or gray squirrels in hardwood bottoms, autumn offers the perfect blend of mild weather, abundant food sources, and high activity.

For new hunters, squirrels provide an ideal entry point into hunting. For seasoned woodsmen, they’re a chance to sharpen stalking, marksmanship, and woodcraft. This guide covers the best techniques, timing, and gear for fall squirrel hunting — so you can fill your game bag while enjoying crisp autumn mornings.

When you’re ready to book a guided small game or combo hunt, visit Find A Hunt — your trusted source for professional outfitters and hunting adventures.

Understanding Fall Squirrel Behavior

In the fall, squirrels are in overdrive preparing for winter. They feed heavily and stay active through the day, making them easier to locate and pattern.

Key Behavior Traits:

• Feeding: Acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts are primary foods. Focus on productive mast trees.

• Vocalization: Barking and chattering increase in early fall — useful for locating them.

• Movement: Peak activity typically occurs shortly after sunrise and late afternoon.

• Habitat Preference: Mixed hardwoods with mature oaks and hickories attract the highest numbers.

Pro Tip: Watch for fresh cuttings — bits of nut shell and husk scattered on logs or under trees — to pinpoint active feeding areas.

Best Locations for Fall Squirrel Hunting

1. Oak Ridges and Hickory Stands

• Early fall: Target white oaks and hickories dropping nuts.

• Later in the season: Focus on red oaks and cutover edges where squirrels shift to secondary food sources.

2. River Bottoms and Mixed Forests

• Provide diverse forage — ideal for gray squirrels.

• Look for fallen timber and water edges for high movement zones.

3. Field Edges and Fence Rows

• Squirrels often travel along edges to reach feeding areas.

• Great for setting up with a .22 rifle or shotgun.

Pro Tip: Use binoculars to scan tree canopies quietly before moving; squirrels often freeze when they detect motion.

Best Times and Weather for Squirrel Hunting

Methods: Still-Hunting vs. Sitting

1. Still-Hunting (Spot and Stalk)

• Move slowly, taking a few steps at a time before pausing to listen.

• Use binoculars to scan treetops for tails flicking or branch movement.

• Sit occasionally — squirrels often reveal themselves when the woods settle.

2. Sitting or Ambush Hunting

• Find an active feeding area and set up quietly against a tree.

• Wait 10–15 minutes for the woods to calm, then scan constantly.

• Ideal for new hunters and small-game mentors with youth hunters.

Pro Tip: Combine both methods — sit in productive areas, then still-hunt between locations.

Best Firearms and Ammo for Fall Squirrels

1. Rimfire Rifles (.22 LR or .17 HMR)

• .22 LR: Quiet, accurate, ideal for headshots in hardwoods.

• .17 HMR: Flatter shooting, better for longer open shots.

• Use subsonic rounds for stealth and minimal meat damage.

2. Shotguns (20 or 12 Gauge)

• Great for dense cover or fast-moving squirrels.

• Use #5 or #6 shot for clean kills without over-penetration.

• Modified choke provides a good balance between spread and density.

3. Air Rifles

• Effective and quiet in populated or restricted areas.

• Use .22-caliber pellets for reliable lethality.

Essential Gear for Fall Squirrel Hunting

• Binoculars: Spot movement in high canopies.

• Camo or earth-toned clothing: Blend into forest surroundings.

• Small daypack: Carry water, snacks, game bags, and ammo.

• Light gloves and hat: Break up your outline and keep warm.

• Hunting stool or pad: Comfort for long sits.

• Knife and game shears: For quick field dressing.

Pro Tip: Pack a mesh game vest with a rear pouch — keeps your hands free while carrying harvested squirrels.

Calling and Attracting Squirrels

• Squirrel Calls: Mimic barks, chatter, or distress sounds to trigger curiosity or territorial reactions.

• Start with soft chatter — if you hear a response, stay still and wait.

• Avoid overcalling — one or two sequences every 10–15 minutes is plenty.

Pro Tip: A simple leaf rustle or stick tap can mimic natural squirrel feeding sounds and draw them closer.

Field Care and Cleaning

• Field dress immediately to cool meat quickly.

• Avoid shot-up areas when cleaning — use small, precise cuts.

• Soak in cold water for a few hours to remove excess blood before freezing.

Pro Tip: Fall squirrel meat is tender and flavorful — ideal for stews, fried recipes, or slow-cooked dishes.

Safety and Ethical Hunting

• Always identify your target and background before shooting into trees.

• Avoid low-angle shots where pellets or bullets may ricochet.

• Respect private property and local game limits.

• Take clean, ethical shots — head or upper chest placement ensures humane harvest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Moving too fast: Squirrels detect motion quickly; patience is key.

• Ignoring wind direction: Scent and sound carry farther than you think.

• Shooting into leafy cover: Wait for clear visibility.

• Leaving noise behind: Metallic gear or crunchy leaves can ruin setups.

• Skipping scouting: Knowing which trees are producing nuts saves hours of guesswork.

FAQ: Fall Squirrel Hunting

Q: What’s the best time of day to hunt squirrels in fall?
A: Early morning and late afternoon when squirrels are most active feeding.

Q: How many squirrels can I take?
A: Most states allow generous daily limits, but always check local regulations.

Q: Can I hunt squirrels during deer season?
A: Yes, but wear required blaze orange and be cautious of other hunters.

Q: Are gray or fox squirrels better to eat?
A: Both are excellent; gray squirrels are slightly milder, fox squirrels a bit richer.

Q: Can I use calls effectively in fall?
A: Yes — fall squirrels are vocal and territorial, making calls particularly effective.

Final Thoughts

Fall squirrel hunting offers everything hunters love about the outdoors — crisp mornings, changing leaves, and steady action. It’s a perfect balance of skill and simplicity, rewarding those who slow down and read the woods.

From mastering quiet stalks to choosing the right .22 or shotgun, the best squirrel hunters blend patience, awareness, and respect for the resource.

When you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, book a small-game hunt through Find A Hunt, where trusted outfitters provide access to prime hardwood ridges and unforgettable fall days afield.

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