New Mexico Bighorn Sheep Season<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 Bighorn sheep opportunities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\nWhat are the New Mexico squirrel season dates for 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
New Mexico’s 2026 squirrel season runs September 1 through December 31, covering Abert’s, red, gray, and fox squirrels, according to NMDOW. That’s a full four-month window rather than a short, narrow season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is the bag limit for squirrels in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The daily bag limit is 8 squirrels, whether taken singly or in any combination of the four legal species, with a possession limit of 16. These limits are set by the state wildlife agency and apply statewide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What license do non-residents need to hunt squirrels in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Non-residents need a non-resident New Mexico game-hunting license, plus the $4 Habitat Management & Access Validation and, if hunting USFS or BLM land, the $10 Habitat Stamp. Non-residents must also satisfy hunter education certification requirements and can purchase everything through NMDOW or an approved vendor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do I need a habitat stamp to hunt squirrels in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yes, but only on U.S. Forest Service or BLM land, where the $10 Habitat Stamp is mandatory. All small-game hunters, regardless of land type, also need the separate $4 Habitat Management & Access Validation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where can I hunt squirrels in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Public land options include Lincoln, Gila, and Carson National Forests, along with most BLM-managed land statewide. For more control and less competition, browse New Mexico hunting leases through Hunting Locator to secure private access for the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What’s the best gear for squirrel hunting in New Mexico?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A .22 rifle works well for precise shots in open terrain, while a .410 or 20-gauge shotgun handles thicker cover better. Round out your kit with layered clothing, sturdy boots, and a knife or game shears for field dressing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When is the best time of day to hunt squirrels?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive windows, when squirrels are most active and actively foraging. This holds true across all three phases of the season, though tactics shift slightly as the weather cools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Final Shot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
New Mexico’s 2026 squirrel season runs a full four months \u2014 September 1 through December 31 \u2014 with an 8-squirrel daily bag limit and 16-squirrel possession limit. The license and stamp requirements are straightforward: a game-hunting license, the $4 Habitat Management & Access Validation, and the $10 Habitat Stamp if you’re on USFS or BLM land, plus hunter education for hunters under 18 and for non-residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting into the woods this season comes down to three steps: buy your license and stamps, decide where you’re going to hunt, and gear up for the terrain. This guide covers the regulatory side. For the access side, Hunting Locator connects you directly with landowners and listings so you’re not left guessing where you’re actually allowed to hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Browse New Mexico hunting leases<\/a> to line up your spot for the rest of the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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