August-September 2020 • Nebraskaland 49
Ask yourself these questions before squirrel hunting this
season.
What's Cutting?
This is a squirrel hunter's most effective knowledge base.
If a hunter knows what a squirrel is eating and at what time,
then their success increases exponentially. In Nebraska,
squirrels eat a variety of nuts, including acorns and walnuts.
A quick midday scout through the woods will reveal what
nuts squirrels are cutting at a particular time, as remnants
will be scattered on the ground.
Partner or Alone?
There's no quieter way to hunt squirrels than hunting
alone. Plus, you're able to stalk or sit for however long you
desire with no one else to cater to. However, hunting with a
partner is fun. It gives you another set of eyes in the woods
and, if a squirrel happens to move itself to the opposite side
of a tree, you and your partner can take turns playing dog by
walking to the opposite side of the tree in an attempt to get
the squirrel to move again. Without a squirrel dog, a partner
is the next best option.
.22 or Shotgun?
The jury is always split on this subject, because both have
so many advantages. Hunting squirrels with a .22 allows the
hunter more range and prepares them for hunting deer with a
firearm later in the season. A scoped Ruger 10-22 has improved
my rifle accuracy considerably after practicing during many
squirrel seasons. Plus, an accurate shot to the head will assure
no meat is ruined. However, hunters must always assure there
is a safe background due to the extreme distance (more than
2,000 yards) that a .22 bullet can travel if unimpeded.
Shotguns are great guns for kids to learn with, and with a
full choke, head shots are attainable at short range. The only
drawback is range itself. I've always tried to keep my shotgun
range at less than 30 yards, while my rifle limit is around 40. I
can shoot squirrels farther than that, but I worry about bullet
accuracy much past that range regardless of weapon.
Morning or Evening?
Great days can be had at both times. The advantage
morning hunts have is allowing you to enter the woods in
the dark and get hidden before squirrels start moving. In the
afternoon, slow walks through the woods can be effective
as squirrels become displaced if taken by surprise. They'll run
up the closest tree they can. Quite often you can wait them
out.
SQUIRREL QUESTIONS
By Jeff Kurrus
PHOTOS
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
