Squirrel Hunting Has Begun, More Seasons to Open in September

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NGPC news release, 8/7/08:

LINCOLN, Neb. –– Squirrel hunters across Nebraska have returned to the woods in pursuit of their favorite small game animal and thousands of other hunters are poised to follow them when more hunting seasons open in September.

Though squirrels are among the most popular game species in many parts of the country, they are an underutilized resource in Nebraska despite a large squirrel population, a season that lasts a full six months, Aug. 1 - Jan. 31, 2009, and liberal bag and possession limits of seven and 28 squirrels respectively.

Mike Streeter, Nebraska Hunter Education coordinator, says hunters must be very careful when hunting during the early season. “Its been very hot and sweating hands can make it hard to hold the gun, especially if the hunter trips on thick vegetation or a hidden obstacle while walking through the woods. It is extremely important to know that the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.

“Always watch out for the other guy,” Streeter says. “Today’s camouflage is very good and hides you from other hunters and living creatures in the woods. If you see another hunter stalking the woods, call out to them to identify yourself as a human. Don’t wave or make movements that could be mistaken for the movement of a game animal.

“When you are squirrel hunting you have to be very sure of your target and what is beyond it, which is sometimes difficult because of all the vegetation. If you don’t know what’s behind the target, don’t shoot. A 22-caliber rimfire bullet will travel over a mile, and a shotgun can shoot more than 300 yards,” he said.

“The opening of rabbit and dove hunting seasons are only a few weeks away on September 1,” he continued. “So now is the time to practice your shooting skills at the range. Get out and break some bluerocks so you will be able to hit fast-flying doves and fast-running rabbits when the season opens.”

This year make it a point to share your favorite activity with friends or family members who have never had an opportunity to try traditional outdoor sports, or reintroduce someone to hunting who may have hunted in the past but hasn’t enjoyed being out recently. The person may be a youngster, your spouse, a relative or friend. There are many types of hunting and at least one should be appropriate for nearly everyone, regardless of their age, sex, or physical condition.

Nebraska’s 2008 archery deer hunting season will be Sept.15-Nov. 14 and Nov. 24-Dec. 31. “The key to a successful archery deer season is plenty of practice,” Streeter said. “It is also a good idea to check tree stands before the season opens and replace worn or broken parts before you head into the woods. Don’t wait until you are putting it into the tree on opening day to find something needs repair.”

Other hunting seasons opening in September are dove, Sept. 1-Oct. 30; cottontail rabbit, Sept. 1-Feb. 28, 2009; grouse, Sept. 13-Dec. 31; rail, Sept. 1-Nov. 9; snipe, Sept. 1- Dec. 16; wood****, Sept. 20-Nov. 3; and jackrabbit, Sept. 1-Feb. 28, 2009.