Gray Squirrel Hunting in California
Description
Squirrel hunting is underrated on the west coast, especially compared to the east where squirrels get the attention they deserve. We target the Western Gray Squirrel. These big-meaty squirrels are excellent when fried like chicken wings or made into cream-of-squirrel soup, or?
There is no better hunt for introducing a new hunter to the sport. It's peaceful underneath towering autumn oaks while listening and looking for squirrels above.
2022-23 General Season: September 10 – January 29
Daily Bag Limit: 4 tree squirrels
What to Expect
We hunt squirrels on private ranches and public forestland. There are thousands of acres of squirrel habitat available to us. We are on the ground nearly daily and know where dense pockets of squirrels live their lives virtually undisturbed.
The methods we use to hunt squirrels is to walk the woods quietly while scanning about, often seeing them jump from tree to tree. Or to sit down underneath a good oak and wait for the squirrels to lose caution and show themselves. We prefer to head shoot the squirrels with a rimfire rifle. Shotguns are equally as effective, but more damaging to the meat.
Most frequently combined with hunts for other species, like mountain quail, valley quail, band-tailed pigeon, grouse, deer, bear, dove, rabbit, and also fishing.
Gear & Equipment
A detailed gear list will be provided to guests after booking.
Weapon Details
Rimfire rifle, shotgun, pellet gun, archery, and crossbow.
Pricing Details
The rate chart for squirrel is below. Price includes food and lodging accommodations. The group may choose to provide their own lodging at a reduced price. These are some common trip lengths, as we offer trips of nearly any duration.
Rates are per person.
1 day/ 0 night = $500
1 day/ 1 night = $700
1 day/ 2 night = $900
2 day/ 2 night = $1,400
2 day/ 3 night = $1,600
3 day/ 3 night = $2,100
3 day/ 4 night = $2,300
4 day/ 4 night = $2,800
Extra nights = $200
Extra days = $500
For combination hunts you should have a focus species in mind. The rate is the price for the species that cost the most to hunt. Upland birds and predators are the same price.
What's included:
• A knowledgeable and experienced guide.
• Transportation from a pre-arranged meeting location to the field where we will begin our hunt.
• Lunch for paid days of the hunt - usually simple foods and snacks, such as, sandwiches, jerky, salami, pepperoni sticks, fresh fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, trail mix, candy bars, and prepared freeze-dried meals. Please let us know of any allergies or preferences.
• Breakfast and dinner if we provide lodging accommodations.
• Lodging for paid nights – sleeping arrangements vary depending on guest preferences. Everything from tents, travel trailers, to houses.
• Field care (skinning and gutting).
What's not included:
• Hunting licensing and applicable stamps.
• Personnel items, backpack, and clothing. We will help you plan and prepare for the hunt and what to bring to stay comfortable. If you do need something let us know and we can usually work with you.
• Weapon and ammunition. Practice with your method of take.
• Alcohol or tobacco products – no alcohol may be consumed before or while hunting.
• Lodging and meals for before and after the hunt dates.
• Transportation to the pre-arranged meeting location.
• Storage, butchering and processing of game beyond the basic field care. It can be hot, have a plan in place for game after your trip.
• Taxidermy services.
Terms & Conditions
50% non-refundable deposit due to book and reserve a hunt.
Remainder due upon arrival.
Deposit will be refunded in special circumstances (i.e. didn't draw special tag)
A hunt agreement will be given to guests as part of the booking process.
Camp/Accommodations
Depends on guest preference.
Permit & Tag Application Process
Must possess a valid hunting license.