When Is Squirrel Hunting Season in Illinois?
When Is Squirrel Hunting Season In Illinois?
Squirrel hunting is a popular pastime in Illinois, and for good reason. Squirrels are a plentiful game animal, and they provide a delicious source of meat. But when is the best time to go squirrel hunting in Illinois?
The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the weather and the location. In general, squirrel hunting season in Illinois runs from late summer to early winter. The peak season is typically in October and November, when the weather is cool and the squirrels are active.
However, some hunters prefer to go squirrel hunting in the early spring, when the weather is still warm and the squirrels are just starting to come out of hibernation. Others like to hunt in the late winter, when the squirrels are hungry and more likely to be active.
No matter when you choose to go squirrel hunting in Illinois, you’re sure to have a good time. Just be sure to get your hunting license and follow all the local regulations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at squirrel hunting season in Illinois. We’ll discuss the best time to go squirrel hunting, the different types of squirrels that you can hunt, and the gear that you’ll need. We’ll also provide some tips on how to be successful on your next squirrel hunting trip.
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| Month | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| November | 15 | December 31 |
| January | 1 | 31 |
| February | 1 | 28 |
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Squirrel Hunting Seasons in Illinois
The squirrel hunting season in Illinois is open from November 15 to January 15. The general season runs from November 15 to December 31, and the late season runs from January 1 to January 15. There is also a special season for youth hunters, which runs from November 15 to December 15.
General Season Dates
The general squirrel hunting season in Illinois runs from November 15 to December 31. During this time, hunters can take squirrels of any species. The daily bag limit is 10 squirrels, and the possession limit is 20 squirrels.
Special Season Dates
There is also a special squirrel hunting season for youth hunters in Illinois. This season runs from November 15 to December 15, and hunters can take squirrels of any species. The daily bag limit is 5 squirrels, and the possession limit is 10 squirrels.
Late Season Dates
The late squirrel hunting season in Illinois runs from January 1 to January 15. During this time, hunters can only take gray squirrels. The daily bag limit is 5 squirrels, and the possession limit is 10 squirrels.
Youth Season Dates
The youth squirrel hunting season in Illinois runs from November 15 to December 15. During this time, youth hunters can take squirrels of any species. The daily bag limit is 5 squirrels, and the possession limit is 10 squirrels.
Squirrel Hunting Regulations in Illinois
In addition to the general season dates, there are a number of other regulations that apply to squirrel hunting in Illinois. These regulations include:
- Species that can be hunted: In Illinois, hunters can take gray squirrels, fox squirrels, and red squirrels.
- Hunting methods allowed: Hunters can use a variety of methods to hunt squirrels, including hunting with a firearm, bow and arrow, or trapping.
- Bag limits: The daily bag limit for squirrels is 10 squirrels, and the possession limit is 20 squirrels.
- Harvest reporting requirements: Hunters are required to report all squirrel kills to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
The squirrel hunting season in Illinois is a great opportunity for hunters to get outdoors and enjoy the great outdoors. By following the regulations, hunters can ensure that they have a safe and successful hunting season.
3. Squirrel Hunting Tips in Illinois
- Where to find squirrels
Squirrels are found in a variety of habitats in Illinois, including forests, woodlands, parks, and even backyards. They are most active during the fall and winter months, when they are looking for food to store for the winter. Squirrels are arboreal creatures, meaning they spend most of their time in trees. They build nests in tree cavities or in the branches of trees.
- How to attract squirrels
There are a few things you can do to attract squirrels to your property. First, you can provide them with food. Squirrels love nuts, seeds, and fruits. You can also put out a bird feeder, as squirrels will often eat the same food as birds. Second, you can provide them with shelter. Squirrels will often use birdhouses or other types of shelters. You can also build a squirrel house yourself. Third, you can provide them with water. Squirrels need water to drink, so make sure there is a source of water available for them.
- How to hunt squirrels
Squirrel hunting is a popular activity in Illinois. There are a few different ways to hunt squirrels. You can hunt them with a firearm, a bow and arrow, or a trap. If you are hunting with a firearm, you will need a small-game license. You can also hunt squirrels with a bow and arrow, but you will need a special permit. If you are hunting with a trap, you will need a trapping license.
When hunting squirrels, it is important to be aware of the legal regulations. You should also be aware of the habitat of squirrels and how to properly stalk and shoot them.
4. Squirrel Hunting Safety in Illinois
Squirrel hunting can be a safe activity if you take the proper precautions. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when hunting squirrels:
- Firearms safety
Always treat firearms as if they are loaded, even if you know they are not. Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Always unload your firearm when you are not using it. Be sure to wear eye and ear protection when hunting squirrels.
- Tree stand safety
If you are hunting from a tree stand, make sure the stand is in good condition and that it is properly anchored. Never climb up or down a tree stand while you are carrying a firearm. Always use a safety harness when hunting from a tree stand.
- Hypothermia prevention
Squirrel hunting can be a cold activity, so it is important to take steps to prevent hypothermia. Wear layers of clothing that will keep you warm. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you start to feel cold, get out of the cold and warm up.
When is squirrel hunting season in Illinois?
Squirrel hunting season in Illinois runs from November 15 to January 15.
What are the bag limits for squirrels in Illinois?
The bag limit for squirrels in Illinois is 10 per day and 50 per season.
What are the legal methods for hunting squirrels in Illinois?
Squirrels can be hunted by:
- Shotgun: Shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than three shells.
- Rifle: Rifles must be chambered for a cartridge with a minimum muzzle velocity of 1,000 feet per second (fps).
- Muzzleloader: Muzzleloaders must be loaded with a single projectile.
What are the safety precautions that should be taken when hunting squirrels in Illinois?
When hunting squirrels, it is important to take the following safety precautions:
- Wear bright clothing to make yourself visible to other hunters.
- Be aware of your surroundings and the potential for other hunters in the area.
- Treat all firearms as if they are loaded, even when they are not.
- Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it before you shoot.
Where can I find more information about squirrel hunting in Illinois?
For more information about squirrel hunting in Illinois, please visit the following websites:
- [Illinois Department of Natural Resources](https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/info/squirrel/Pages/default.aspx)
- [National Shooting Sports Foundation](https://www.nssf.org/hunting/squirrel-hunting/)
squirrel hunting season in Illinois is a time-honored tradition that offers hunters the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and harvest a delicious and nutritious game animal. By understanding the regulations and following the tips outlined in this article, you can have a safe and successful squirrel hunting season in Illinois.