Doves are migratory birds, so the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service sets the outer limits on seasons and bags, and each state picks its dates inside them.
The September 1 opener
September 1 is the earliest date federal rules allow a dove season to open, a date set by treaty more than a century ago. Nearly every state opens on September 1 or the first Saturday in September, and seasons can run no later than January 15.
Bags and hours
A 15-bird daily bag limit is common, and shooting hours usually run from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. States can be more restrictive than the federal framework.
Register for HIP
Migratory bird hunters must register with the Harvest Information Program in each state where they hunt. Registration is free and helps federal biologists estimate the harvest used to set future seasons.
Dates, limits and rules change every year. Always check your state’s current regulations.