Why It Matters: With dove season marking the official start of fall hunting across the Great Plains, sportsmen and women look forward to hitting the fields for one of the most popular and accessible bird hunts. Dove hunting provides exciting action, generous bag limits, and an opportunity for new hunters to experience their first hunt.
Highlights:
- Dove hunting is a highly anticipated kickoff to the fall hunting season across the Great Plains.
- Bag limits and season structures differ from state to state, making it important for hunters to review current regulations.
- Dove hunting provides a great opportunity for youth and new hunters, helping recruit the next generation of sportsmen and women.
September 1st marked the opening of the dove hunting season for many states in the Great Plains region – and many states across the country. Dove season serves as one of the first opportunities for hunters to hit the fields, shake off the dust, and prepare themselves for the year’s upcoming pursuits. Many of us at the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) will be taking the opportunity to enjoy the start of the fall hunting season, and harvest doves.
Although a fine solo hunting opportunity, dove hunting is a great group activity, where more experienced hunters can pass on our time-honored outdoor traditions to newcomers. Many state fish and wildlife agencies manage public dove fields providing public access for hunters and a great opportunity to recruit new and youth hunters to join us afield.
Dove hunting in the Great Plains region typically offers hunters generous daily limits and bag limits, with many states allowing 15 doves per day and a possession limit of 45. With limits like these, hunters can spend plenty of time in the field harvesting birds and enjoying the start of the fall hunting season. For specific season dates, bag limits, and regulations, please check your state agency website before hitting the fields.
