It's a message that rings constantly in the ears of hunters. But that's because it's an ever-important message for sportsmen, and also for wildlife. Conservation is funded by sportsmen when they buy hunting and fishing licenses and pay federal excise taxes on sporting goods, so an important part of ensuring a future for conservation includes ensuring a future for sportsmen. The bottom line is that keeping hunting and fishing traditions strong by introducing newcomers to the outdoors equates to better funding for current and future wildlife conservation efforts.
Hunters who want to share their heritage are in luck when it comes to squirrel hunting. There are two subspecies of squirrels that can be legally hunted in Oklahoma-the fox squirrel and the gray squirrel-and both present unique challenges and plenty of action for someone who is just learning how to hunt.
Use these tips when showing the ropes of squirrel hunting to a youth.
Keep it Exciting
Young hunters may have a short attention span, so you want to hunt long enough for them to enjoy the trip, but not so long that they lose interest. If you are having a good hunt, by all means enjoy every minute of it. However, if a youngster shows signs of growing tired or the weather is either too hot or too cold, be alert and make sure you head home before loss of interest or obvious discomfort becomes a factor.
Focus on Fun
Any time you take a new hunter to the woods, it helps to make sure you're not so focused on harvesting game that you miss out on some good jokes and conversation. Talk, move about some, and have a good time. That's what it's all about.
Pack a Snack
Hunting can be tiring, so pausing mid-hunt for a snack will not only keep you and your new hunting partner fueled for the rest of the hunt, but it also provides a chance to stop and rest if you've been doing a lot of hiking or walking. Plus, who doesn't like a good sandwich?
Look tor Teachable Moments
Certain lessons learned in squirrel hunting apply to all types of hunting, so look for ways to help a newcomer become a better hunter and more appreciative of wildlife and the natural world. Often you'll find just the right opportunity to instill these skills and values through questions asked or even by stumbling upon something interesting in the woods such as a wildlife food source, tracks, a den, or other sign. Firearm safety, hunter responsibility and other lessons taught through the Wildlife Department's hunter education program can be reinforced and demonstrated with each action you take.
Be Encouraging
Ensuring that a new or young hunter gains confidence in the woods is important to their becoming a safe, responsible, and satisfied outdoorsman. Tell them when they have performed well, such as when they make a good shot or a responsible decision. When teaching someone to squirrel hunt, you have the chance to mentor him or her for the better. Don't miss the chance.
Public Hunting Information
The Wildlife Department offers a ton of public land options! Most all ODWC managed lands including Wildlife Management Areas and Oklahoma Land Access Program are open to squirrel hunting. Always consult area specific regulations before planning your hunt. Here is a link to ODWC’s public areas, where you can use an interactive map to plan your next hunt!
Hunter Education
Hunter education covers a variety of topics including firearms safety, wildlife identification, wildlife conservation and management, survival, archery, muzzleloading, and hunter responsibility. Hunters 10 years old and up need to take a hunter education course, unless possessing an apprentice designated license. ODWC offers in-person and online options!