Keith Lusher 01.07.26
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is inviting hunters of all ages to take part in the Umarex Big Squirrel Challenge, a statewide small-game competition returning Jan. 9–10 for its fifth consecutive year.
The annual event encourages hunters to hit the woods with a partner and compete for prizes by harvesting and weighing the biggest squirrels during the two-day window. Hunting begins at noon Friday, Jan. 9, and concludes with weigh-ins by noon Saturday, Jan. 10, at 13 locations across Arkansas.
Participants may harvest their legal daily limit of 12 squirrels, but only the three largest squirrels may be entered for scoring. Hunters can compete in fox squirrel, gray squirrel, or mixed-bag categories, with each squirrel counting toward only one entry. Teams may enter multiple categories if they have qualifying squirrels.
Eric Maynard, assistant chief of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Education Division, said the event is designed to promote small-game hunting and get families outdoors together.
“Squirrel hunting is a lot of fun,” Maynard said. “It’s a great opportunity to get kids out, introduce people to hunting, and remind folks how accessible small-game hunting really is.”
Teams consist of two hunters, with divisions for adult teams and youth teams. Youth teams include two hunters under age 16 or a youth paired with an adult mentor. While solo hunters are allowed, AGFC officials say the event is intended to emphasize shared outdoor experiences.
There is no entry fee or pre-registration required. Hunters simply show up at one of the weigh-in locations with their squirrels field-dressed and skin-on. Hunters must be in line by noon Saturday to qualify.
First and second-place finishers in each category at each location will receive medals. Statewide winners in each category will also receive Umarex air rifles. Every participant who weighs in a squirrel is automatically entered for door prizes at their weigh-in location.
Maynard said the challenge has grown into a popular January tradition for Arkansas families.
“It’s a competition, but it’s really about having a good time outdoors,” he said. “Small-game hunting is one of the easiest ways to introduce someone to hunting, and this event puts it back in the spotlight.”
More information, including weigh-in locations and official rules, is available at agfc.com
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