Opening Day, Early September

For many hunters, the dove opener is the first real day of fall even when the thermometer disagrees. Season dates vary by state and by zone, and in many places the first day falls in early September. Check your state wildlife agency for this year’s dates and shooting hours.

Doves are migratory birds, which means federal rules apply alongside state regulations. Hunters generally need a state license and registration in the Harvest Information Program, and federal rules limit the shell capacity of shotguns used for migratory birds. Read the current regulations carefully each year.

Baiting rules deserve special attention. Hunting over areas where grain has been placed to attract birds is restricted under federal law, while normal agricultural practices may be allowed. If you are invited to hunt a field, ask how it was prepared.

Good dove hunting is about scouting. Look for fields with harvested grain or weed seeds near water and a line of trees or power lines where birds can perch. Sit where you can see approaching birds and stay still; movement flares them more than anything else.

Respect the birds and the field. Retrieve every downed bird promptly, keep count against the daily limit and pick up your empty hulls before you leave. Landowners remember who left their field cleaner than they found it.