When Is Dove Hunting Season in [Your State]?

When Is Dove Hunting Season?

The sweet song of the mourning dove is a harbinger of spring for many people. But for hunters, it also signals the start of dove hunting season. Dove hunting is a popular pastime in the United States, and for good reason. Doves are plentiful, they’re easy to hunt, and they make for delicious eating.

Dove hunting season typically runs from September to January, but the exact dates vary by state. In most states, the season opens in September and runs through November. However, some states have extended seasons that run through December or even January.

Doves are typically hunted with shotguns, and the most popular shot size is 7 1/2. Doves are fast-moving birds, so it’s important to use a shot size that will give you a good chance of hitting them.

If you’re new to dove hunting, there are a few things you need to know. First, doves are typically found in open areas, such as fields, pastures, and agricultural land. Second, doves fly in flocks, so you’ll need to be able to identify the individual birds that you want to shoot. Third, doves are very wary of predators, so you’ll need to be able to get close to them without spooking them.

Dove hunting can be a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. If you’re thinking about trying dove hunting for the first time, be sure to do your research and learn as much as you can about the sport.

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State	Start Date	End Date
Alabama	September 1	February 28
Alaska	September 1	January 31
Arizona	September 1	February 28
Arkansas	September 1	February 28
California	September 1	February 28

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Dove Hunting Season Dates

Dove hunting season is a popular fall tradition for many hunters across the United States. Doves are a migratory bird, and their arrival in the United States coincides with the start of dove hunting season. The exact dates of dove hunting season vary from state to state, but the general season runs from September to January.

Federal Dove Hunting Season Dates

The federal dove hunting season is set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). The FWS sets the season dates based on the best available science to ensure that dove populations are maintained at healthy levels. The federal dove hunting season typically runs from September 1 to January 31. However, some states may have shorter or longer seasons.

State-Specific Dove Hunting Season Dates

Each state has its own set of dove hunting regulations. These regulations may include different season dates, bag limits, and hunting methods. It is important to check the specific regulations for the state you will be hunting in.

You can find a list of state-specific dove hunting regulations on the FWS website.

Factors that Affect Dove Hunting Season Dates

The following factors affect the dates of dove hunting season:

• Dove migration patterns: Doves migrate to the United States from Central and South America in the fall. The timing of their migration varies from year to year, and this affects the start of the dove hunting season.
• Weather conditions: Weather conditions can also affect the start of the dove hunting season. For example, if there is a late frost, the doves may not arrive in the United States until later in the fall.
• Population levels: The population levels of doves can also affect the start of the dove hunting season. If dove populations are low, the season may be shorter or closed altogether.

Dove Hunting Regulations

In addition to the federal dove hunting season dates, there are a number of other regulations that you must follow when hunting doves. These regulations vary from state to state, but some of the most common include:

• Hunting licenses and permits: You must have a valid hunting license and permit to hunt doves in most states.
• Bag limits: You are only allowed to kill a certain number of doves per day. The bag limit varies from state to state.
• Shooting hours: You are only allowed to hunt doves during certain hours of the day. The shooting hours vary from state to state.
• Hunting methods: You are only allowed to use certain methods to hunt doves. The hunting methods allowed vary from state to state.

It is important to check the specific regulations for the state you will be hunting in. You can find a list of state-specific dove hunting regulations on the FWS website.

Dove hunting season is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. By following the federal and state regulations, you can help ensure that dove populations are maintained at healthy levels and that you have a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.

Additional Resources

• [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Dove Hunting](https://www.fws.gov/birds/hunting/species/doves/index.html)
• [National Wild Turkey Federation: Dove Hunting](https://www.nwtf.org/hunting/species/dove)
• [North American Hunting Club: Dove Hunting](https://www.nahunter.org/hunting/dove-hunting/)

Dove Hunting Tips

When it comes to dove hunting, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Scout for doves. Before you head out to the field, take some time to scout for doves. This will help you identify the areas where they are most likely to be found. Look for areas with food and water, such as grain fields, ponds, and rivers. You can also use a dove call to attract doves to your location.
• Call doves. Doves are attracted to the sound of other doves. You can use a dove call to imitate the sound of a dove in distress, which will attract other doves to your location.
• Shoot doves. When you see a dove, take your time and aim carefully. Doves are small and fast, so you need to be quick and accurate if you want to make a clean shot.
• Handle doves after they’re shot. Once you’ve shot a dove, it’s important to handle it properly. Doves are very delicate, so you need to be careful not to damage them. To handle a dove, grasp it firmly by the neck and wings. Then, place it in a game bag or cooler.

Dove Hunting Safety

Dove hunting is a safe activity, but there are a few things you can do to stay safe while you’re out in the field.

• Firearms safety. Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded, even if it isn’t. Never point your firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Be sure to follow all of the safety rules when handling your firearm.
• Field safety. Be aware of your surroundings and the other hunters in the field. Stay on designated trails and roads. Don’t shoot at birds that are flying over other hunters.
• Water safety. If you’re hunting near water, be aware of the potential dangers. Wear a life jacket if you’re wading or boating. Be careful not to step into holes or submerged objects.

By following these safety tips, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable dove hunting experience.

Dove hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success and have a safe and enjoyable experience.

When is dove hunting season?

Dove hunting season in the United States typically runs from September to January, depending on the state. Check with your state’s fish and wildlife department for specific dates and regulations.

What do I need to do to get a dove hunting license?

You will need to purchase a dove hunting license from your state’s fish and wildlife department. The cost of a license varies by state, but it is typically around $20. You may also need to purchase a federal migratory bird permit, which costs $15.

What kind of gear do I need for dove hunting?

You will need a shotgun, shotgun shells, a dove call, and a pair of binoculars. You may also want to wear camouflage clothing and a hat to help you blend in with your surroundings.

What is the best way to hunt doves?

Doves are typically hunted from a blind or elevated platform. You can use a variety of calls to attract doves, but the most effective call is a mourning dove call. Doves are typically shot on the wing, so you will need to be able to quickly aim and shoot your shotgun.

What are the most common mistakes that dove hunters make?

Some of the most common mistakes that dove hunters make include:

• Not using enough camouflage
• Not using the right calls
• Shooting too early or too late
• Not being patient
• Not being aware of other hunters

How can I improve my dove hunting skills?

There are a few things you can do to improve your dove hunting skills, including:

• Practice shooting your shotgun at a dove target
• Learn how to use different dove calls
• Read up on dove hunting tips and techniques
• Practice hunting doves with experienced hunters

What are some of the challenges of dove hunting?

Some of the challenges of dove hunting include:

• Doves are fast and agile, making them difficult to shoot
• Doves can be unpredictable, making it difficult to know when and where to shoot
• Dove hunting can be physically demanding, especially in warm weather

What are some of the benefits of dove hunting?

Some of the benefits of dove hunting include:

• Dove hunting is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature
• Dove hunting can be a challenging and rewarding experience
• Dove hunting is a great way to provide food for your family

Is dove hunting ethical?

Dove hunting is considered to be ethical by most hunters. Doves are a popular game bird, and they are plentiful in many parts of the United States. Dove hunting can be a sustainable way to manage dove populations and provide food for people.

dove hunting season is a time-honored tradition for many people across the United States. It is a chance to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with friends and family, and put some meat in the freezer. However, it is important to be aware of the regulations and safety precautions associated with dove hunting. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting season for everyone involved.