Georgia’s woods will soon echo with the rustle of squirrels and the footsteps of hunters as the state’s squirrel hunting season kicks off on Aug. 15.
The season, which runs through Feb. 28, 2026, invites hunters of all experience levels to pursue both gray and fox squirrels, with a daily bag limit of 12 per person, according to a press release from Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).
“Squirrel season is a great way to introduce someone to hunting. It’s accessible, steeped in tradition, and full of lessons in patience and woodsmanship,” said Diana McGrath, a wildlife biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ WRD. “It’s also an important part of maintaining ecological balance.”
The gray squirrel—Georgia’s most common species—thrives in both rural and urban settings, especially in hardwood or mixed forests. These smaller squirrels weigh between 12 ounces and 1.5 pounds.
Fox squirrels, which are generally larger and more colorful, can weigh up to three pounds and are more common in mature pine habitats, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions.
Hunters should be aware that not all Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) allow fox squirrel hunting, and some limit the take to just one fox squirrel per day, according to a press release from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ WRD.
Nearly one million acres of WMA lands are open to squirrel hunting at various times throughout the season. Current regulations and area-specific dates can be found at GeorgiaWildlife.com/hunting/hunter-resources.
Beyond the woods, squirrel can also be a welcome guest at the dinner table. From fried squirrel with gravy to barbecue or casserole dishes, the meat is high in iron and B vitamins—and praised for its flavor, GeorgiaWildlife.com/hunting/hunter-resources. Recipes can be found on the WRD blog.
Hunters can purchase or renew licenses at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com and find additional season information at GeorgiaWildlife.com.
