Hunting for Squirrels in the Fall: Techniques and Gear

Fall squirrel hunting is one of the most rewarding and accessible pursuits in the woods. Whether you’re introducing a new hunter to the sport or sharpening your marksmanship between big-game seasons, chasing bushytails offers constant action, fresh air, and excellent table fare.

As leaves change and acorns start dropping, squirrels become active and predictable — making autumn the prime time to fill a game bag. This guide covers everything you need to know about how to hunt squirrels in the fall, from proven field techniques to the essential gear that makes the hunt more enjoyable and successful.

For those who want to experience high-success small-game hunts across the country, explore trusted outfitters through Find A Hunt — your go-to resource for booking quality hunting adventures.

Why Fall Is the Best Time for Squirrel Hunting

Fall brings abundant food sources, cooler temperatures, and shorter days — all of which drive squirrel activity. During this season, squirrels feed heavily to prepare for winter, offering hunters predictable opportunities from dawn to dusk.

What Makes Fall Hunting Ideal

• Increased Movement: Squirrels are highly active in the morning and evening while foraging.

• Natural Camouflage: Autumn foliage allows for better concealment and quieter stalking.

• Prime Food Sources: Acorns, hickory nuts, walnuts, and corn draw squirrels consistently.

• Cooler Weather: Reduces scent and insect issues, making longer hunts more comfortable.

Fall is also a great time to sharpen woodsmanship — the same stealth and observation skills you build chasing squirrels translate directly to deer and turkey hunting later in the season.

Scouting for Squirrels

Even for small game, scouting makes a difference.

1. Identify Key Food Sources

• Focus on hardwood stands with oaks, hickories, and walnuts.

• Look for cuttings — chewed shells and nut fragments — at the base of trees.

• Corn and grain fields adjacent to woods are hotspots during harvest season.

2. Listen Before You Look

• Early morning chatter, rustling leaves, and falling nuts give away squirrel locations before you see them.

• Use your ears first; patient listening often reveals multiple squirrels nearby.

3. Look for Nests and Travel Routes

• High leafy clusters in trees are squirrel nests (dreys).

• Travel routes often follow large limbs or fallen logs connecting food sources and den trees.

Fall Squirrel Hunting Techniques

1. Still-Hunting (Sneak and Sit)

A time-honored approach that works best in calm, dry weather.

• Move slowly through the woods, pausing every few steps to listen and scan.

• Stop frequently — squirrels will often reveal themselves once you’re still.

• Sit near a productive hardwood stand and let the woods settle.

Pro Tip: If squirrels spook, sit tight. Wait 10–15 minutes — they’ll often resume activity once the threat passes.

2. Stalking and Spot-and-Shoot

Perfect for windy days when background noise masks your movement.

• Use terrain features, brush, and tree trunks as cover.

• Spot feeding squirrels in trees or on the ground, then close distance carefully.

• Take sitting or kneeling shots for accuracy.

This technique is especially effective in late fall when leaf cover thins and visibility improves.

3. Hunting with a Partner

Two hunters can work together efficiently:

• One moves slowly to locate and push squirrels.

• The other posts up quietly to intercept those that circle around trees or escape routes.

• Communicate clearly and always maintain safe shooting zones.

4. Calling Techniques

Squirrel calls can help locate or calm squirrels.

• Bark or distress calls trigger curiosity and can draw out hidden squirrels.

• Use sparingly — overcalling can make them cautious.

• Combine with periods of silence for best effect.

5. Time Your Hunts Right

• Morning (Sunrise to 10 a.m.): Peak feeding period.

• Afternoon (3 p.m. to Sunset): Squirrels feed again before returning to dens.

• Midday hunts work best on overcast or cooler days when squirrels remain active longer.

Choosing the Right Firearm or Bow

1. .22 Rifle

The classic squirrel gun — quiet, accurate, and affordable to shoot.

• Choose .22 LR for typical ranges (20–60 yards).

• Use subsonic or hollow-point ammo for minimal meat damage.

• Optics: a 2–7x scope is perfect for precise headshots.

2. Shotgun

Ideal for close shots in thick foliage.

• .410, 20-gauge, or 12-gauge loaded with No. 5 or 6 shot are perfect choices.

• Effective when squirrels are moving quickly or partially obscured by leaves.

3. Air Rifle

Modern .177 or .22-caliber airguns can be surprisingly effective and quiet.

• Excellent for backyard or small-acreage hunts where noise matters.

• Use hunting-grade pellets and precise shot placement.

4. Bow or Crossbow

For archery enthusiasts, small-game heads or blunt tips work best.

• Requires close range (under 25 yards).

• Great for practicing stealth and shot discipline.

Essential Gear for Fall Squirrel Hunts

Pro Tip: Bring a thermos and small folding stool — comfort helps you stay longer and hunt smarter.

Field Dressing and Meat Care

• Field dress squirrels promptly to cool meat and prevent spoilage.

• Skinning is easiest while the body is still warm — many hunters use the “tail-step” method.

• Keep game in a mesh bag or breathable game pouch, not plastic.

• Refrigerate or freeze cleaned squirrels as soon as possible.

Fall temperatures help, but proper field care ensures top-quality meat for stews, fried squirrel, or gumbo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Moving too fast: Patience kills more squirrels than speed.

• Shooting into treetops without a clear backdrop: Always identify what’s beyond your target.

• Hunting noisy days without wind cover: Rustling leaves make it impossible to approach quietly.

• Skipping ear and eye protection: Even small calibers can damage hearing over time.

• Hunting only once: Squirrel woods reset quickly — revisit the same spot after a few days.

Why Book a Guided Small-Game Hunt

Even for seasoned hunters, guided small-game hunts offer:

• Access to private hardwood stands and productive areas.

• Professional insight on local squirrel behavior and habitat.

• Opportunities to learn new skills in field dressing, calling, and shooting from experienced guides.

To find outfitters offering fall squirrel hunts or small-game combos, book your next adventure through Find A Hunt — where top-rated guides help you get the most out of every hunt.

FAQs About Fall Squirrel Hunting

What’s the best time of year to hunt squirrels?
September through November, when leaves are dropping and food sources are plentiful.

Do I need camouflage for squirrel hunting?
Yes — muted, natural colors and quiet materials make a big difference in concealment.

Can I hunt squirrels after rain?
Absolutely — wet leaves quiet your movement, and squirrels often feed aggressively after rain stops.

Is squirrel hunting good for beginners?
Yes. It’s inexpensive, safe, and ideal for learning woodsmanship, shooting, and field craft.

What’s the best way to cook squirrels?
Slow-cooked stews, fried squirrel, and smoked meat are all favorites — just be sure to tenderize older squirrels.

Final Thoughts

Hunting squirrels in the fall combines skill, patience, and the simple joy of being in the woods. With the right rifle, gear, and quiet approach, you’ll not only fill your game bag but also gain valuable hunting experience that applies to every species you pursue.

Whether you’re chasing gray squirrels in hardwood ridges or fox squirrels in farm country, remember — the hunt’s true reward is time spent in nature and the satisfaction of doing it right.

Ready to experience prime small-game country with seasoned guides? Book your next fall squirrel hunt through Find A Hunt — connecting hunters with expert outfitters and unforgettable outdoor experiences.