Cease-Fire on Squirrels?

[Ltr113]

I'm new to hunting. I'm not sure if I'm ready to take a deer yet. (I'm still pretty green). I've been squirrel hunting a few times and really enjoy that. After having been out a few times, I'm becoming more confident with my skills as well as my shotgun.

I don't want any problems out there with deer hunters. I know that quite a bit of preparation & scouting goes into a 3-4 week deer hunt. I don't want to blow the chances for someone who has done their homework by mucking around in "their spot".

Aren't the public WMA's big enough for everyone to get some of the action without stepping on anyone's toes? I've talked with a couple of people about this and they said that deer hunters are very "territorial" and me going out there and walking around (and shooting at squirriels) is going to disturb the hunt. One even said "you're apt to get shot". Is this the true "sportsmanship" that goes on in the sport that I've chosen?

My question is should I curtail my squirrel hunting adventures until deer season is over (as sort of an unwritten hunter's code)?

[jhbozington]

You have just as much a right to be there as they do. Right now pheasant season is also open so the WMAs have guns going off all the time. If they're hunting in a WMA they should have expected it and should have been prepared to deal with it IMO.

[Flatlander]

I say go for it. If you know where someone is set up give them space. Who knows you might bump a deer in their direction.

[bigrak]

Above all be safe!

[Quaid?]

if i were you i would def keep hunting. if you see a truck parked in a landing or something near where youre gonna hunt, i would go to a differnent spot, but thats a bout it.

[MBullism]

On public land you have as much right to be out there doing whats legal as the next guy... I'm with jhbozington- you pays you money and you takes you chances. When I hunt public land I have to expect that someone else might also.

As for the WMAs being big enough, probably not...at least not such they could be dedicated to one certain pursuit. You're not likely to get shot...yes, some people are thick headed, but you get that anywhere. Most that I know have enough spots (and hunt more than just deer) so they get it and either move on or adjust-

The simple fact that you ask the question says volumes about you and your approach welcome to the sport, and enjoy it.

[Thor]

I think your post shows a lot of respect and integrity you'll be an asset to the sport. Doing your best to stay out of other hunters way is all you can do. One species does not take precedence over another. Just get in the woods be safe and have fun. Don't shoot at any 200lb squirrels it might be someone in a tree stand!

[RustyD]

Wear lots of ORANGE and you will be all set.