Dove Hunting Opener: Start the Season with Success

Dove Hunting Opener: Start the Season with Success

The dove hunting opener marks the arrival of the fall hunting season—a time eagerly anticipated by upland bird hunters every year. It's not just a day of hunting; it's a tradition steeped in camaraderie, excitement, and the thrill of the chase. For many, this event goes beyond the pursuit of doves; it’s a celebration of the season’s beginning, shared with friends and family. In this article, we'll explore the unique elements of the dove hunting opener, provide tips on preparation, and outline strategies to ensure your season starts on a high note.

The Excitement of Dove Hunting Opener

The dove hunting opener is much more than a simple day in the field; it’s an event that unites hunters of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the sport, the excitement is undeniable. But what makes this day so special?

Tradition and Camaraderie

For many families, dove hunting is a cherished tradition. The opener is a time when parents, children, and friends gather to share stories of past hunts, assemble in the early morning light, and anticipate the day ahead as the sun begins to rise. It's about more than just the hunt—it's about reconnecting with loved ones, making new friends, immersing yourself in the outdoor lifestyle and taking that first shot to kick off the new hunting season. 

The Perfect Start to the Hunting Season

Dove hunting typically kicks off the fall hunting season, making it an ideal way to shake off the rust from the off-season, test your gear, and get into the rhythm of hunting. There’s something magical about being in the field as the sun rises, with the crisp morning air and doves darting off the power lines into a field of sunflowers or millet. The opener also poses a unique challenge—doves are small, fast, and agile, requiring quick reflexes and precise shooting, the perfect target species for getting yourself back into the groove with a shotgun. 

Preparing for Dove Hunting Season

Success in dove hunting doesn’t happen by chance; it's the result of deliberate preparation. From scouting prime locations to assembling the right gear, careful planning can make all the difference.

Scouting Locations

Scouting is critical when preparing for dove hunting. Doves are migratory birds, and their presence can be unpredictable. Start scouting your hunting spots a few weeks before the opener. Look for fields with abundant food sources like sunflower, millet, or wheat—prime locations where doves are likely to gather. Scouting at various times of the day will help you understand the birds' habits and identify the best spots for your setup.

If you can find a location with a large, active roosting tree, water, and food...that's the holy trinity of dove hunting. Put yourself between the three and you've got a good chance of limiting out!

Note that most of these prime locations are going to be on private land. Don't be afraid to door-knock and ask for permission. Many people only care about people deer hunting on their property and will gladly give you permission to target doves so long as it's not during the harvest. 


Look for doves sitting on the powerlines as you drive around scouting.

Gear and Equipment Checklist

Proper equipment is essential for a successful dove hunt. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shotguns and Ammunition: 12 or 20-gauge shotguns are both great options, but our personal choice is the 28-gauge with light loads—typically 7.5 or 8 shot—offering the right balance of weight, coverage and impact. Practice with your chosen setup before the season starts to ensure you’re ready for the fast-paced action.
• Clothing and Camouflage: Doves have sharp eyesight, so blending in with your surroundings is smart...however, they aren't like ducks where they bust you once and disappear over the horizon. Doves will often head to the powerlines and circle back to the food even after spotting you. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in earth tones or camouflage patterns that match your environment. Comfort is key, especially in the warm early-season weather.
• Other Essential Gear: Don’t forget a comfortable stool, a cooler for your harvest, and plenty of water. Eye and ear protection are important for safety. A pair of binoculars, a game bag with a water bottle for your dog are all worth bringing. 
  
  
  Make sure to bring water for the dogs. It can be dangerously hot for them in September without proper hydration. 
  
  Dove hunting can be a great way to get your 4-legged friend back into "hunting mode" if they've been sitting on the couch all summer! 

Understanding Dove Behavior

Knowing how doves behave is crucial for a successful hunt. Let’s dive into their patterns and habits.

Migration Patterns

Doves are migratory, and understanding their patterns can help you predict their movements during the season. Typically, doves start migrating south as soon as the weather cools, making early season hunts the most productive. Local scouting reports and historical data are valuable tools for planning your hunt.


Doves migrate as soon as the weather cools down.

Feeding and Roosting Habits

Doves are creatures of habit, feeding in the morning and late afternoon, often in open fields where seeds are plentiful. Roosting occurs in nearby trees, and doves typically return to the same spots daily. By identifying these areas, you can set up your hunting spot for the best chances of success.


Sunflowers are a favorite food source for doves.

Techniques for a Successful Dove Hunt

Strategy is as important as skill in dove hunting. Here are some techniques to help you increase your success:

Positioning and Timing

Position yourself near feeding or watering areas where doves are likely to fly over. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times, as doves are most active then. 

If you can find their roosting tree and food source, put yourself between the two. If you can find water, food and their roost...you're on the "X" and should be able to have a very successful hunt. 

Early Morning vs. Late Afternoon Hunts

Early morning hunts can be highly productive as doves leave their roosts to feed. Late afternoon hunts are also effective as doves return to roosting areas. Both times offer unique challenges and rewards, so consider trying both to see what works best for you.

Shot Placement and Accuracy

Dove hunting requires quick reflexes and precise shot placement. Doves are fast and agile, so leading the bird slightly and aiming for the head or upper body will increase your chances of a clean hit. Practice at a skeet or trap range can help hone your skills before the season begins.

Processing and Cooking Your Harvest

After a successful hunt, the next step is to properly process and enjoy your harvest. Dove meat is delicious and versatile, and with proper care, you can make the most out of your birds.

Cleaning and Storing Doves

The most commonly used part of the dove is the breast meat, which is lean, tender, and flavorful. To clean a dove, start by plucking the feathers from the breast area, making a small incision along the breastbone, and peeling the meat away from the ribcage. Refrigerate or freeze them for later use.

Dove is certainly not the most popular game meat (especially up here in the north country) but we have tried cooking them a couple different ways and have shared our favorite Dove Jalapeño Popper recipe below. 

Dove Jalapeño Poppers:

Get the Recipe Here

Conclusion

The dove hunting opener is honestly the perfect start to the hunting season. It's easy for both kids and adults to get involved, doesn't require trekking into the swamp or deep into the woods, and can be fast-paced and action packed fun for everyone involved. It's a great way to shake off the rust for both hunters and dogs, and if you've never tried it before, we highly suggest getting out this season and giving it a shot - pun intended -

Get ready to kick off the new hunting season!  We'll see you out there! 

What are your thoughts on dove hunting? Do you kick of the season with Doves on September 1st every year? - Let us know below