When is squirrel season in Ohio? For the 2026–27 season, squirrel hunting is open from September 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027 — one of the longest small-game seasons in the state. Here’s everything you need to know: dates, limits, where to find them, and how to hunt them.
When Is Squirrel Season in Ohio? 2026–27 Dates
Ohio’s squirrel season runs September 1, 2026 – January 31, 2027. The daily bag limit is 6 squirrels. The season covers both of Ohio’s squirrel species — fox squirrels and gray squirrels — under one combined limit.
That’s five full months, which makes squirrel hunting the perfect way to fill the gaps between deer seasons — or the perfect first hunt for a beginner. If you’re planning for other game too, see our guide to when hunting season is in Ohio for deer, turkey, and small game dates.
Fox Squirrels vs. Gray Squirrels
Ohio has two huntable squirrel species, and they divide the state neatly:
- Fox squirrels — larger, reddish-brown, more abundant in western Ohio. They prefer open woodlots and forest edges.
- Gray squirrels — smaller, gray, more prevalent in eastern Ohio’s deep hardwoods.
Both taste the same in the pot. Look for them in forests with beech, oak, and hickory trees — the mast (nuts) these trees drop is squirrel food, and where there’s food, there are squirrels.
How to Hunt Squirrels in Ohio
Squirrel hunting is gloriously simple — which is exactly its charm. Two main approaches:
- Still-hunting: Walk slowly through the woods, stopping often to scan the treetops. Move like you have all day, because you do.
- Sitting: Settle against a tree in a good oak stand at first light and let the squirrels come to you. Morning and late afternoon are prime.
A .22 rifle is the classic squirrel gun — precise and quiet. A shotgun with #6 shot is more forgiving for beginners and better in thick cover. Either works; pick what you shoot best.
What You Need: License and Land
You need a valid Ohio hunting license — no additional permit required for squirrel. Ohio’s public wildlife areas offer excellent squirrel hunting; the Division of Wildlife’s wildlife area maps show which ones have the hardwood stands squirrels love. Private land with permission works too — many landowners are happy to have squirrel hunters thin the population raiding their bird feeders. Always confirm current dates and rules with the Ohio Division of Wildlife before heading out. Regulations can shift slightly year to year, so if you’re ever unsure when is squirrel season in Ohio, the Division’s website has the final word.
Safety note: squirrel season overlaps deer gun season (November 30 – December 6, 2026). During those weeks, wear blaze orange and be extra aware — the woods get crowded.
From Field to Table
Don’t overlook squirrel as table fare. Young-of-the-year squirrels are tender enough to fry like chicken; older squirrels do best braised or stewed low and slow — squirrel and dumplings is a legitimate Ohio tradition. Field dress promptly, cool the meat quickly, and soak in salted water before cooking.
Why Squirrel Hunting Deserves Your October
Squirrel season in Ohio opens before everything else, costs nothing beyond your license, and teaches woodsmanship — reading sign, moving quietly, judging distance — that transfers to every other kind of hunting. It’s also just plain fun: crisp October mornings, falling leaves, and action from first light.
September 1 to January 31, six a day, woods full of squirrels. If a buddy asks when is squirrel season in Ohio, now you’ve got the dates. See you out there.
Pro tip: rainy, windy days keep squirrels denned up — save your hunt for calm, dry mornings after a cold night, when they’ll be out feeding hard at first light.
Best Time of Day and Season
The first two hours after sunrise are squirrel prime time — they’re out feeding heavily before the woods warm up. Late afternoon brings a second feeding window. Early season (September) finds squirrels cutting hickory nuts and acorns in the treetops; by November they’re working the forest floor for cached nuts. After a fresh snow, follow the tracks: squirrel trails in snow are unmistakable, and they lead straight to active feeding areas. Time your hunts around those windows and you’ll make the most of squirrel season in Ohio.
