Dove Hunting Guide: Tips, Gear, and Strategies for a Successful Season

Online   Sep 17, 2025

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For many hunters, dove season marks the start of fall and offers the perfect mix of challenge, camaraderie, and time in the field. While these fast-flying birds can test even experienced shooters, understanding their habits and preparing properly can turn a good day outdoors into a successful one.

Know the Birds
Doves are highly predictable creatures. They thrive in open areas where grain, seeds, and fruit are plentiful, often near farmland or freshly cut fields. Their activity peaks around sunrise and again in the evening, when they leave roosts to feed and stop at waterholes before returning to rest. Recognizing these patterns gives hunters a big advantage when choosing where to set up.

The Right Setup
When it comes to gear, simplicity and reliability are key. A 12- or 20-gauge shotgun paired with light loads—typically 7½, 8, or 9 shot—offers the balance needed for quick-moving targets. Adding decoys can help draw birds into range, while a well-fitted vest, shell pouch, and quality eye and ear protection make long hunts safer and more comfortable.

Planning and Positioning
Good preparation often makes the difference between empty skies and full game bags. Scouting ahead of time allows you to spot flight lines and feeding zones. Positioning yourself between food sources and roosting areas increases your chances, while blending into the environment with camouflage or natural cover helps avoid spooking birds. Practicing smooth, controlled gun mounts and proper lead on moving targets also improves accuracy. Limiting shots to 30–40 yards ensures cleaner hits and less wasted game.

After the Hunt
Once birds are down, retrieve them quickly and clean them properly to keep the meat fresh. A favorite recipe among hunters is grilled dove breast wrapped with bacon and a slice of jalapeño—simple, delicious, and a well-earned reward after time in the field. Just as important, cleaning and maintaining your shotgun after each trip keeps it ready for the next hunt.

More Than the Harvest
At its core, dove hunting is about more than filling a limit. It’s about shared mornings with friends, respect for the land, and the personal challenge of sharpening your skills season after season. With the right mix of knowledge, preparation, and tradition, every dove hunt has the potential to become a lasting memory.