Meta description: Find out when squirrel hunting season starts in Illinois, how long it runs, daily limits, license requirements, legal hours, and where to check current rules.
In Illinois, squirrel hunting season generally starts August 1 and runs through February 15. The long season offers opportunities in late summer, fall, and winter, but hunters still need to follow current Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) rules on species, bag limits, licenses, legal hours, and access. Because regulations and site-specific rules can change, hunters should verify the details for the season and property they plan to hunt before heading out.
Illinois Squirrel Season Dates
The regular Illinois squirrel season typically opens on August 1 and closes on February 15. This season applies to the state’s principal hunted squirrel species, fox and gray squirrels. The dates span parts of two calendar years, so a season described as August 1 through February 15 begins in one year and ends in the next.
For example, a season opening August 1, 2026, would close February 15, 2026, unless IDNR publishes a different schedule or a site has additional restrictions. The dates are a useful general guide, not a substitute for the current year’s regulations. Hunters should consult the official Illinois hunting regulations and season information before planning a trip.
Illinois’ broad season window gives hunters different conditions throughout the year. Early-season outings often take place in warm weather, while fall brings changing foliage and winter hunts may involve colder temperatures and reduced daylight. Weather, food availability, and squirrel activity can vary considerably by location and date.
At A Glance: Illinois Squirrel Hunting Rules
| Rule | General information |
|---|---|
| Typical season | August 1 through February 15 |
| Commonly hunted species | Fox and gray squirrels |
| Daily bag limit | Five squirrels in total |
| Possession limit | Ten squirrels in total |
| License | An appropriate Illinois hunting license is generally required, subject to exemptions |
| Current regulations | Check the current IDNR hunting regulations and any property-specific rules |
These figures summarize commonly published statewide rules. Hunters should confirm the current limits and any exceptions in the applicable IDNR regulations, particularly before a hunt that crosses a season boundary or takes place on public land with special rules.
Bag And Possession Limits
Illinois generally sets a daily bag limit of five squirrels and a possession limit of ten. The daily limit is the maximum number a hunter may take in one day. The possession limit is the maximum number a person may possess at one time under the applicable regulations; it is not permission to take ten in a single day.
Fox and gray squirrels count toward the combined limit. Hunters should identify their quarry correctly and keep an accurate count, including animals already in their possession when assessing whether another squirrel may legally be taken. Bag and possession rules can be subject to regulatory updates, so the current IDNR publication is the final reference.
Hunters should also handle harvested game responsibly. Keep animals identifiable when required, transport them in accordance with applicable rules, and follow any reporting, tagging, or inspection requirements that apply to the location or season. If a rule is unclear, checking with IDNR or the property manager before hunting is safer than relying on informal advice.
Hunting Hours And Daily Planning
Legal shooting hours are set by Illinois regulations and can vary by species or activity. Hunters should check the current squirrel-specific entry rather than assume that hours for deer, waterfowl, or another game species also apply to squirrels. Local public hunting areas may impose additional time limits, access windows, or check-in procedures.
Sunrise and sunset shift through the season, so a legal start or end time may change from one date to another if the regulation defines hours relative to daylight. Before leaving home, hunters can check a reliable sunrise and sunset listing for the hunt location and compare it with the applicable IDNR rule. They should allow enough time to leave the field safely and comply with property closing times.
Good preparation includes checking the forecast, identifying a safe route, carrying a charged phone or other communication device, and telling someone where the hunt will take place. In early August, heat and humidity can be significant; later in the season, cold, wet conditions and shorter daylight require different precautions.
License And Other Requirements
Most hunters need a valid Illinois hunting license to hunt squirrels. Requirements depend on factors such as residency, age, and applicable exemptions. A person hunting on private land should not assume that land ownership automatically removes every licensing requirement; exemptions are specific and should be checked in the state’s current rules.
Illinois also uses a state habitat stamp requirement for many hunting activities, with exemptions that may apply to certain hunters or circumstances. Whether a stamp is needed depends on the individual’s situation and current regulations. License and stamp options, eligibility, and purchase information are available through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources license portal.
Hunters should carry the required license and other documentation while hunting, whether in paper or an accepted electronic format under current rules. If hunting on public property, they may also need to complete a site registration or check-in process. A general hunting license does not automatically grant permission to enter every public or private parcel.
Where To Hunt In Illinois
Squirrels are commonly found in wooded areas with mature trees, including oak and hickory stands, forest edges, and other places that provide food and cover. Public hunting opportunities may be available at state-managed sites, but access, open areas, and permitted activities differ by property. Before visiting, review the site’s current map, hunting schedule, and special regulations.
The IDNR state parks and recreation areas pages can help hunters locate state-managed properties, while the agency’s hunting pages provide broader regulatory information. A listed public property is not necessarily open to squirrel hunting on every date or in every part of the site. Some areas may be closed, reserved, or subject to controlled access.
Private-land hunters need permission from the landowner or authorized occupant before entering and hunting. Permission should be clear about the property boundaries, access route, dates, and any restrictions. Respecting gates, crops, livestock, buildings, and neighboring property helps prevent accidents and protects future access.
Firearm, Archery, And Safety Considerations
Hunters must use lawful equipment and comply with Illinois rules governing firearms, ammunition, and other hunting methods. Regulations can distinguish between firearm types, ammunition, and methods of take, so hunters should confirm what is permitted for squirrels rather than assume that equipment legal for one species is legal for another.
Basic firearm safety remains essential in squirrel woods. Hunters should keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treat every firearm as loaded, identify the target and what lies beyond it, and keep the safety engaged until ready to shoot. Never fire at movement or at a sound without positively identifying the animal and ensuring a safe background.
Bright, visible clothing can help other people recognize a hunter, especially where multiple users share public land. Hunters should be aware of nearby homes, trails, roads, and other recreational users, and should not shoot toward them. On public property, posted safety zones and discharge restrictions take precedence over general hunting access.
Tips For A More Productive Squirrel Hunt
Scouting before opening day can reveal feeding areas, travel routes, and the kinds of trees squirrels are using. Look for signs such as chewed nuts, feeding debris, nests, and frequent movement among trees. Observing wildlife from a distance can help a hunter choose a quiet position without disturbing the area.
In early season, cooler portions of the day may be more comfortable, but the best activity periods vary with weather and local conditions. As leaves fall, visibility can improve, while wind and rain may affect both movement and hearing. A patient approach, quiet steps, and regular pauses often make it easier to notice activity.
Hunters should plan for the specific habitat and conditions. Sturdy footwear, water, weather-appropriate layers, eye protection, and a first-aid kit are useful basics. A map or GPS can help with navigation, but it should not replace knowledge of property boundaries or posted closures.
Common Questions About Illinois Squirrel Season
Does Illinois squirrel season start on the same date every year?
The regular season generally opens August 1 and closes February 15. Hunters should still verify the dates in the current IDNR regulations because the official season announcement and any special site rules control for that year.
Can a hunter take five fox squirrels and five gray squirrels in one day?
No. The commonly published daily limit is five squirrels total, combining fox and gray squirrels. The possession limit is generally ten total. The current regulation should be checked to confirm the limits in force.
Is a hunting license required to hunt squirrels in Illinois?
Generally, yes. License requirements and exemptions depend on the hunter’s circumstances. Illinois may also require a habitat stamp for many hunters, subject to exemptions. IDNR’s licensing information explains current requirements and purchasing options.
Can hunters pursue squirrels on any state-owned land?
No. Hunting access depends on the property, designated areas, dates, and site-specific rules. Hunters should check the property’s official page, map, signage, and check-in requirements before entering with hunting equipment.
How To Verify Current Regulations
Before each season, review IDNR’s current hunting regulations for the official squirrel dates, species, limits, legal hours, and license requirements. Then check the rules for the specific property, since a site may have closures or restrictions beyond statewide regulations. Useful starting points include the IDNR hunting information page and the agency’s public lands information.
For a simple pre-hunt check, confirm the season is open on the planned date, verify the applicable bag and possession limits, make sure the required license and stamp are valid, check legal hours, and confirm that the chosen property allows squirrel hunting. That routine helps ensure an Illinois squirrel hunt is both lawful and safe.