Deer season is over and part of you feels empty inside.
It was a good season, but now all you can do is practice your calls for the spring turkey season. Right?
Wrong! From New Year’s through early spring, there are still plenty of opportunities for hunters to combat cabin fever. Varmints, predators, and invasive species; they’re out there, so get outside and continue to hunt through January ice and February blizzards.
Let’s look at some of the species that will keep you hunting all winter long.
Rabbit
Many states throughout the U.S. allow you to pursue rabbit from fall through January and even until the end of February. Rabbit hunting can be done with a wide variety of small firearms, including .22 long rifles. You can even use your trusty 12-gauge shotgun, as long as it’s loaded with the proper shot.
Coyotes
Depending on where you live, you may be able to hunt coyote all year long. Many farmers will gladly give you permission to hunt coyotes on their property, but these wary predators are one of the most difficult animals to take, which give you a rewarding challenge.
Wild Hog
Like the coyote, wild hogs can be hunted all year round in most areas. If you live in the southeastern region of the U.S., wild hogs give you the chance to use your 30-06 or 30-30 rifles for more than just target shooting, and you’re doing you part for conservation by eliminating this destructive, invasive species.
Squirrel
If you have kids, squirrel hunting is one of the best ways to acclimate them to the sport of hunting. It’s usually fast-paced, without the hours of waiting that you get from deer, turkey, or duck hunting, and it allows youngsters to use a small, comfortable firearm like a .22 or a .410 shotgun.
Raccoons
Many states in the upper midwest allow you to hunt raccoon until the end of January or into February, while some southern states like Louisiana allow you to take raccoons all year long, making it a fun summer sport too.
Beaver
Many northern states have trapping seasons for beavers that last from early winter until early spring, the time of year when beaver pelts are the most desirable. Depending on your location, these animals can also be hunted with a firearm, and it might surprise you to learn that some areas have no daily or seasonal limit for beaver hunting and trapping.
Crow
While it may not seem like the most appealing game to most hunters, this can be a fun sport that brings a full day of action; just don’t underestimate these intelligent, keen-eyed birds. If you are a duck hunter, then you should know that crows are known to destroy waterfowl nests, so hunting these omnivores helps protect the more desirable duck population.
The Right Hunting Apparel for Winter
From summer to winter, hunting requires the performance hunting apparel. Make sure you have layered apparel that will keep you comfortable and warm throughout the season. Visit the online store from NOMAD and you’ll find top-quality apparel for every hunting season.