WINSLOW — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting aspiring outdoorsmen to start the new year with a classic Hoosier tradition. An “Introduction to Squirrel Hunting” workshop will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sugar Ridge Fish & Wildlife Area.
Squirrel hunting is often referred to as the “gateway to hunting” in Indiana because it requires minimal gear and offers high engagement for beginners. This hands-on session is designed to give participants the confidence to head into the woods for the final stretch of the winter season.
The workshop, led by DNR Fish & Wildlife experts, will cover a comprehensive range of topics tailored for first-timers:
- Biology & Behavior: Understanding squirrel habitats and how to spot them in the winter canopy.
- Essential Gear: Recommendations for clothing, firearms (typically .22 rifles or shotguns), and safety equipment.
- Tactics: Learning “still hunting” (moving slowly and stopping) versus “stand hunting” (sitting and waiting).
- Regulations: A review of Indiana’s bag limits and legal hunting hours.
- Field to Table: Basics of harvesting and processing your first squirrel.
According to the DNR, squirrel hunting is one of the most accessible ways to enter the sport. Indiana’s current squirrel season, which began in mid-August, runs through January 31, 2026, making this workshop a perfectly timed opportunity for those looking to get out before the season ends.
The Sugar Ridge Fish & Wildlife Area, located at 2310 East State Road 364 in Winslow, offers over 8,500 acres of prime habitat. The property’s mix of hardwood forests and rolling hills provides an ideal classroom for learning woodcraft.
Registration & Requirements
The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required as space is limited to ensure a quality learning environment.
While a license is not required to attend the educational workshop, participants will need a valid Indiana hunting license and must follow “Hunter Orange” requirements if they plan to hunt on their own after the session.
To register, visit the Indiana DNR Events Calendar and search for the Sugar Ridge event.
