Intro to this species—landscapes, strategies, costs, and comforts.
Summary
The Western Grey Squirrel (Sciurus griseus) is a robust and agile rodent native to the western regions of North America, particularly flourishing in mixed deciduous and coniferous forests. Distinguished by its soft, grey fur, large bushy tail, and expressive eyes, this species exhibits a slightly larger size compared to its Eastern counterpart, often measuring between 18 to 24 inches from nose to tail. Known for its remarkable climbing abilities and tendency to forage in treetops, hunting the Western Grey Squirrel requires a strategic approach, as they are adept at evasion. Successful hunts typically occur during early mornings or late afternoons when these squirrels are most active, often utilizing calls to locate them or watching for movement among the foliage. Hunters may also employ the use of stealthy tracking techniques, as well as the choice of varying .22 caliber rifles or shotguns for a humane and effective harvest, ensuring adherence to local regulations. The Western Grey Squirrel not only presents an engaging challenge for hunters but also offers a rewarding culinary experience, valued for its tender meat.
Western Gray Squirrel hunts on the West Coast center on mature oak-wood and mixed-forest habitats where these tree squirrels thrive. Guided outings typically take place on private ranches or public woodlands, with hunters walking quietly beneath towering oaks or sitting still to spot squirrels as they move through the canopy. Light, accurate rimfire rifles are preferred for clean head shots at moderate range, though shotguns also work effectively, and the pursuit makes for an excellent introduction to hunting. With abundant populations and accessible terrain, Western Gray Squirrel trips are often combined with upland bird hunts and deliver both a peaceful field experience and high-quality table fare.
Western Grey Squirrel hunts are generally offered as day trips with no included overnight lodging or sleeping arrangements. Hunters should plan to arrange their own accommodations if an extended stay is desired. Depending on the outfitter, meals may be provided in the field or hunters may need to bring their own food and refreshments. Because these are daytime hunts, dedicated heating and cooling systems are not part of the package; participants should dress for local weather conditions and may find temporary shelters or shooting blinds available on site.
We think these three hunts should be at the top of your list.
Western Gray Squirrel 3-Day Hunt
An entire web page for squirrel? Yup. Squirrel hunting is underrated on the west coast 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.
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.
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 decadent 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 upland bird hunts.
California
Western Grey Squirrel
2100
Trinity Fork Outfitters
Fair Chase
Private
Unspecified
Yes
Unspecified
Unspecified
Meals Provided
Unspecified
2100
Includes Dogs
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Western Gray Squirrel Day Hunt
An entire web page for squirrel? Yup. Squirrel hunting is underrated on the west coast 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.
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.
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 decadent 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 upland bird hunts.
California
Western Grey Squirrel
500
Trinity Fork Outfitters
Fair Chase
Private
None - Day Hunt
No
N/A
N/A
Meals Not Provided
Unspecified
500
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Western Grey Squirrel FAQs
What you need to know before you book:
How does hunting Western Gray Squirrel compare to other species?
Western Gray Squirrel hunting is generally more relaxed and accessible than big-game hunts. The pursuit focuses on careful observation and quiet movement beneath oak canopies rather than long-distance stalks or heavy pack-outs. Hunters often use light rimfire rifles or shotguns for precise shots at moderate range. Because populations are abundant and terrain relatively gentle, these outings are well suited for pairing with upland bird hunts or introducing newcomers to field sports without the physical demands of larger game.
What time of year is best for hunting Western Gray Squirrel?
The prime season usually runs from late summer into early winter, coinciding with the annual acorn drop in mature oak woodlands. Peak hunting often occurs in September through November when squirrels are most active feeding on mast. Always verify local state regulations, as open seasons and bag limits can vary by region.
Are hunts of Western Gray Squirrel more on public or private land?
Guided Western Gray Squirrel hunts most often take place on private ranches where landowners manage oak stands and maintain healthy squirrel populations. Some outfitters also secure access to adjoining public woodlands, allowing participants to experience a mix of terrain. Private-land hunts tend to offer higher success rates and more predictable conditions.
Explore Our Western Grey Squirrel Hunts
Filter, sort, and find the perfect hunt tailored to your style.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
An entire web page for squirrel? Yup. Squirrel hunting is underrated on the west coast 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.
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.
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 decadent 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 upland bird hunts.
California
Western Grey Squirrel
2100
Trinity Fork Outfitters
Fair Chase
Private
Unspecified
Yes
Unspecified
Unspecified
Meals Provided
Unspecified
2100
Includes Dogs
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.
Western Gray Squirrel Day Hunt
An entire web page for squirrel? Yup. Squirrel hunting is underrated on the west coast 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.
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.
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 decadent 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 upland bird hunts.
California
Western Grey Squirrel
500
Trinity Fork Outfitters
Fair Chase
Private
None - Day Hunt
No
N/A
N/A
Meals Not Provided
Unspecified
500
Contact
Check Availability
Contact Outfitter
Thank you! Your submission has been received! We will be in touch in the next 24 hours.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
This info will not be shared with other outfitters or sold in any way. We will not SPAM you. We grab this info so that we can (quickly) make a warm introduction between you and the outfitter. Then we step aside and let you communicate by email, text, or phone with the outfitter as you see fit.
Alternatively, log in or sign up to see this outfitter’s contact info so you can reach out directly.
Check Availability
Request received! We’re reaching out to the outfitter and will update you as soon as we hear back.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
When you submit this request, we will do the legwork of calling and emailing the outfitter to see if they have an opening on your requested dates. We will continue reaching out to the outfitter daily until we hear back. You’ll hear from us very soon.