DOVE HUNTING TIPS & TECHNIQUES

One of the many time-honored traditions in Texas, especially in the hill country, is hunting dove. Many set their calendars, plan vacations, and in more than one case, we’ve heard some people plan a pregnancy around this summer ritual. As summer gives in to Fall, it’s time to prepare for this fraternity and celebration in the field.

SEASON | ZONE | DATES

Regular North | Sep. 1, 2023 - Nov. 12, 2023 & Dec. 15-31, 2023

Central | Sep. 1, 2023 - Oct. 29, 2023 & Dec. 15, 2023 - Jan. 14, 2024

South | Sep. 14, 2023 - Oct. 29, 2023 & Dec. 15, 2023 - Jan. 21, 2024

Special White-Winged Dove Days South | Sep. 1-3, 2023 & Sept. 8-10, 2023

BAG LIMITS

All zones: 15 Birds daily

Daily aggregate: No more than 2 white-tipped

Post season limit: 3 times daily bag

Doves are not hard to bring down if hit squarely. It usually only takes a few pellets. Hunters should use a smaller shot size, offering more pellets creating a denser pattern. This is most effective on these fast-moving birds. Dove hunting is typically done with 7 1/2, 8, or 9 shot.

The best all-around and most common 12-gauge shotshell used in the dove fields is a 1- or 1 1/8-ounce load of 7 1/2. During the early dove season, a good shotshell is No. 8, followed up with a 7 1/2 for longer shots. The heavier loads allow for longer shots, so as the season goes on hunters can switch to loading No. 7 or even 6 depending on the conditions. The smaller No. 8 pellets are perfect for mourning doves, while 6, 7, or 7 1/2, make good on knocking down the larger white-winged doves.

Prepping for Texas Dove Season