I’m sitting by the fire pit on our back porch writing this, so it’s safe to say fall has officially arrived. Typically, the first cold front pushes more doves through Texas, so if you didn’t get an early start on the season, no worries—you still have until November 10th, 2024. In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know to get your first dove.
Step 1: Get Your License
The very first step is getting your hunting license. If you haven’t done that yet, make sure to check out my post on how to get licensed. It’s essential to have the proper paperwork before heading out to hunt.
Step 2: Finding a Place to Hunt
If you have access to private property where you’re allowed to hunt, that’s a great start. The best approach is to observe where you see groups of doves flying and set up in that area. If you’re unsure where they typically fly, try setting up in the tree line near a water source, or on the edge of a large plowed field or sunflower field, if you have one. (Sunflower fields can be absolute gold mines if you catch them at the right time!)
If you don’t have access to private land, many states offer public hunting land that you can utilize. For public land, you may need a different license, so confirm that you have the correct one. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for hunting lands near you, as they often provide maps and rules for specific areas. Note that public land can get busy, so be prepared to see other hunters. In East Texas, for example, we have quite a bit of public land designated for dove hunting, but it can only be hunted until November 1st—so make sure to check your local regulations.
Step 3: Get the Right Gun and Ammo
If you don’t already own a shotgun, I’d recommend investing in one. I’ll be posting a breakdown of shotguns soon because there’s a lot to consider, so keep an eye out for that. Having the right equipment is essential for a successful hunt.
Step 4: Time to Hunt!
Dove hunting can be done in the morning or evening, but I find the best time is in the evening, from about 4-5 pm until sunset. Remember, you cannot shoot more than 30 minutes before sunrise or more than 30 minutes after sunset.
When hunting doves, be prepared to shoot often—they are fast and small targets. Don’t get discouraged if you miss. I’ve gone out with a full box of shells and come back with one bird and no shells left. It’s all part of the experience, so have fun and enjoy the process!
Step 5: Take a Picture
You’ve bagged your first dove. You’re a badass. Make sure to take a picture for the mems.
Step 6: Clean Your Bird
I plan to create a video on this soon, but until then, here’s a basic explanation: If the bird is on its back with the breast facing up, place pressure on both of your thumbs to pull the skin away, exposing the breast. Once exposed, you can either use a knife to cut the meat out or pull the whole breastplate out by pushing your thumb underneath and lifting it out. The top might get caught, so you’ll have to pull or twist to break it free. Discard the rest of the body—it’s not a waste; other animals will eat it, or it will decompose and feed the soil.
What to Bring and What to Wear
Here’s my tried-and-true list for dove season:
- Clothing: Sunglasses, a hat, jeans, closed-toe shoes, and a t-shirt are usually enough since it’s typically warm in Texas. If it’s cooler, bring a jacket. Camo is best but any natural colors will work.
- Gear: Water, beer (if you partake), a cooler for the dove breasts, plastic bags, and a folding chair. I can’t count how many times I’ve shown up without a chair and had to stand or squat for hours.
- Extras: It’s also a good idea to bring toilet paper—trust me, you’ll thank me later
OTSDE Outdoors 