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and vest, and a hunting license are needed. It Slingshots and bows and arrows are also
doesn’t get much simpler than that. legal methods for squirrel hunting, but an
The selection of a method of take is perhaps inexperienced urbanite probably should not
the most crucial choice a new hunter will have try to use those methods.
to make. Shotguns are hard to beat for squirrel Under no circumstances should a person
hunting, as they allow hunters to hit a running just be given a gun and taken to the woods to
bushytail as it moves from tree to tree or tries hunt. It is wise to schedule a range session for
to use leaves for concealment during the early the new hunter to learn about the firearm and
part of the season. A .22-caliber rifle is ideal marksmanship. Doing so will increase safety
for harvesting squirrels. It has taken millions and chances of success on the hunt. Don’t be
of squirrels in the U.S. since its introduction surprised if city dwellers already own a gun
in 1887. Air rifles, or pellet guns, are another suitable for hunting.
popular option for hunting squirrels, as thou- A new hunter looking for a place to hunt
sands of American youths, particularly those may have better luck gaining access in some
in urban environments, likely used an air rifle areas if they hunt with an air rifle or shotgun,
when they learned how to shoot. because of their limited range. Most people

JENNY RISHER/MIDWEST ASSN FISH&WILDLIFE AGENCIES One of the biggest perks of squirrel hunting is having fun with friends and family . Unlike big

game hunting, where one must be quiet and constantly aware of the wind, a squirrel hunter
can be more relaxed and partake in a few jokes . This within itself makes squirrel hunting

perfect for introducing new people to hunting .

16 OUTDOOR OKLAHOMA