When the morning gobbling of turkey season begins to fade, North Carolina hunters don’t have to pack away their gear just yet. The 2026 North Carolina spring gray squirrel season runs from May 11th to May 25th. While traditionally a fall pursuit, this two-week spring window offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the woods during one of the most vibrant times of the year.
Why Hunt in May?
Spring squirrel hunting is biologically sound, timed to follow the spring breeding pulse. It provides a low-pressure environment for both veteran woodsmen and new hunters to hone their skills.
- Abundance: Gray squirrels are the most prevalent tree squirrel in NC and can be found in every county.
- Ideal Weather: The mild May temperatures are far more forgiving than the freezing late-winter months.
- Basics of Woodsmanship: Moving through the lush spring greenery requires stealth, patience, and a keen eye—foundational skills for any hunter.
Top-Tier Table Fare
Many hunters argue that spring squirrels are actually better on the dinner table than their fall counterparts. During the spring, squirrels shift their diet to tender buds and young shoots, which can result in sweeter, more tender meat. Whether fried and served with biscuits and gravy or slow-cooked in a traditional squirrel mull, they are truly excellent table fare.
Multi-Purpose Scouting: Deer and Sheds
One of the greatest advantages of being in the woods in May is the “incidental” scouting for upcoming seasons. As you stalk through hardwood ridges and creek bottoms, keep your eyes on the ground.
- Antler Sheds: While late winter is prime shed-hunting time, the late-spring woods can still yield forgotten “white gold” before the undergrowth completely takes over.
- Deer Stand Sites: Use this time to find fresh deer trails and bedding areas. Because the leaves are back on the trees, you can see exactly how much concealment your future deer stand will have during the early bow season. Look for the “last scrape” before a bedding area or topography changes like subtle dips where deer prefer to walk.
Regulations and Bag Limits
For the 2026 spring season, the following rules apply:
- Dates: May 11 – May 25, 2026.
- Species: Gray squirrel only.
- Location: Statewide on private lands; hunters should check specific Game Land regulations for public land availability, as some areas may be closed for spring squirrel hunting.
- Bag Limit: 8 gray squirrels per day.
Whether you’re looking to fill the freezer, introduce a youngster to the sport, or simply get a head start on your fall deer scouting, the NC spring squirrel season is a prime time to be outdoors.
