John's Journal...

The Best Squirrel Hunting

Planning a Squirrel-Hunting Float Trip

Click to enlargeEditor’s Note: Many states encourage hunters to take squirrels in February. To squirrel hunt effectively, I need a good rifle, Click to enlargea quality scope, the best binoculars I can buy and my squirrel calls. Spotting a bushytail on the limb at 60 yards will test even Superman's X-ray vision without binoculars and a riflescope. However, from 60- to 80-yards away with these optics, I can distinguish the difference between a squirrel's tail swishing or a bird's wings flapping. No matter where you hunt squirrels, you’ll have more success if you’ll use squirrel calls.

If you plan a float trip for squirrels, first check the state’s game laws. In some states you can use a motor on your boat or canoe, but you must pull the motor into the boat when hunting. Also, you must have the permission of the landowners on either bank to shoot from the water. In many national forests and state lands, you can float and shootbushytails without additional permission other than your having a WMA permit.Click to enlarge

On any outdoor adventure, expect the unexpected. When float hunting for squirrels, let someone know where you’ll put in, where you’ll take out, and at about what time you plan to arrive at your take-Click to enlargeout point. Never make a foolish decision. If a craft capsizes or you fall out of a boat, normally you can swim to shore. However, thigh-high waders, a hunting coat and insulated clothing make even a short swim complicated. Always wear a life jacket or SOSPENDERS like duck hunters do.
Also pack waterproof matches and a Space Blanket like the ones from MPI Outdoors. Never stay on the water during a flash flood. Pull into shore and seek shelter.


Check back each day this week for more about "The Best Squirrel Hunting"

Day 1: Hill Topping
Day 2: Bunch Hunting
Day 3: Boat Hunting
Day 4: Tree Standing
Day 5: Planning a Squirrel-Hunting Float Trip

 

Entry 494, Day 5