Summer time is definitely dominated by fishing season, which is great. I love fishing, but don’t count hunting out just yet! A lot of people have the misconception that the summer months have nothing to offer hunting wise. Surprisingly, there is still (small) game to be hunted, even in the hot summer months! Off the top of my head, I can think of three small game animals that are ripe for pickin’s (squirrels, bullfrogs and dove) between the summer months of June-September. Seasons of course vary state to state, but here in Kansas, squirrels are on my summer “hit-list”.
Squirrel season in Kansas opens the 1st of June and runs clear to February. I have only been squirrel hunting a hand full of times, but the times I went were very fun. Not 
only was it fun, but it definitely helped me as a hunter become more aware of my surroundings. Creeping through the woods in full camo trying to catch a glimpse of a red flash scurrying through the trees can really improve one’s hunting skills and instincts.
Squirrels definitely have the advantage, because they dwell high in the trees. So, when stocking through the woods, be aware of all sights and sounds. I usually wear my Realtree camo, top to bottom. It seems like a little much to get a little 1-2 pound squirrel, but think of it as chasing a big whitetail buck on foot and THEY have the vantage point. I don’t know about you, but I’m thankful squirrels aren’t dependent on smell, or else they would be nearly impossible to get.
Another tip I can give you on squirrel hunting is the use of a distress call. This is the only time you should make a ruckus when squirrel hunting. Calm conditions are optimum if calling for squirrels. Grab a little tree or leafy branch and beat it on the ground while playing your distress call for about 15 seconds. This simulates a hawk or owl swooping down and grabbing an unsuspecting squirrel. It usually triggers any nearby squirrels to start “barking”, which gives their location away. After you get a general idea where the squirrel is, start heading that way, keeping trees and brush between you and the sound if possible. Squirrels usually keep barking for a good 2 minutes. Once spotted, ease your way into range of whatever weapon you are using. If you don’t get a response after a couple series of 15 seconds, move on into the woods and try again.
If squirrel hunting has piqued your interest, be sure to check out these great articles and blogs on Basspro1Source.com. You’ll find lots of information from how and when to hunt squirrels to making simple snares.
See, summer does offer hunting options. Please be sure to check with your state seasons, rules, and regulations before you do any type of hunting. You can easily access your states hunting/fishing license website through basspro.com. All you need to do is select your state, to access all your states regulation information.
Happy and Safe Hunting!!
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