2026 Spring Squirrel Hunting Season to Open May 9

NASHVILLE --- Tennessee's 2026 spring hunting season for gray, fox, and red squirrels opens Saturday, May 9, and will continue through Sunday, June 14.

The daily bag limit is 10, the same for the fall/winter squirrel season, which is held from late August until March 15. There are five species of tree squirrels found in Tennessee. Two species, the southern flying squirrel and the northern flying squirrel, are protected and cannot be hunted. They are small, nocturnal, and rarely seen.

It is important for hunters to check individual wildlife management areas (WMAs) regulations, as some areas may have specific rules on hunting device types. For more information, check the 2025-26 Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide available on the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website (tnwildlife.org), TWRA regional offices, and locations where hunting and fishing licenses are sold.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

---TWRA---