from september–december 1945, "bushnell" continued to act as a repair vessel for submarines throughout the period of demobilization and peacetime reorganization of the submarine force in the san diego area. in january 1946, she sailed to guam to tend submarines engaged in the occupation of japan. this tour of duty continued until april, at which she was recalled to pearl harbor for duty with submarine squadron 1. "bushnell" operated with subron 1 until 24 may 1947. at that time, she sailed to mare island for overhaul. returning to pearl harbor on 10 september, she resumed her duties with subron 1. in december 1947, "bushnell" returned to mare island and reported for inactivation. she was placed out of commission in reserve on 30 april 1948.