How To Set Up A Ground Squirrel Shooting Station?

Choosing the Right Rifle and Optic

When hunting ground squirrels in California, a rifle with a flat trajectory and a good optic is essential. A .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington caliber rifle is suitable for this purpose, as they offer a flat trajectory and can effectively take down ground squirrels at distances of up to 100 yards. A 4-12x scope is a good starting point, but consider a 6-24x or 8-32x scope for more challenging shots. Don’t forget to zero your rifle at 25 and 100 yards to ensure accuracy in both close and long-range shots.

Setting Up the Shooting Station

When setting up your shooting station, position yourself 25-30 yards from a prominent entrance or burrow. Use cover such as rocks, trees, or a brush pile to conceal yourself and provide a stable shooting position. Consider using a bipod or shooting bag to stabilize your rifle, especially if you’re shooting from an elevated position. Be mindful of the wind direction and take it into account when calculating your shot. Also, be prepared for the ground squirrels to pop out rapidly, so keep your rifle at the ready and take a controlled breath before taking the shot.

Tips for Successful Shots

To increase your chances of a successful shot, focus on a specific entrance or burrow and wait patiently for the ground squirrels to emerge. Look for squirrels that are active and not skittish, as they are more likely to be feeding or moving around. When the squirrel pops out, take a controlled breath, align your sights, and squeeze the trigger smoothly. Aim for the center of the body, just behind the front legs, to ensure a quick and humane kill.