Dove hunting is the cheapest, simplest wingshooting there is — and one of the hardest to hit. A little prep fixes most of that.
Field briefing
Mourning dove seasons in Washington and Oregon open September 1st in typical years, with daily bag limits around 15 birds. Doves migrate early, so opening weekend usually holds the most birds you'll see all season. Confirm current dates and limits in each state's upland bird regulations.
Best for: new wingshooters and anyone who hasn't hunted doves since last fall. Key takeaway: scout water and gravel, shoot improved cylinder, bring more shells than feels reasonable.
Always confirm season dates and bag limits in the current state regulations before hunting.
Choke and shells
Doves are fast, jinking, and usually shot inside 30 yards.
- Choke: improved cylinder covers nearly everything. Skip full choke — you'll dust more birds than you hit.
- Shells: #7.5 or #8 shot, 2¾-inch, standard loads. You'll shoot a lot of them; budget accordingly.
- Practice: a round or two of sporting clays before opener pays for itself immediately. Focus on crossing targets.
Scouting that works
Doves run on three needs: food, water, grit.
- Gravel roads and field edges — they pick grit mid-morning
- Water — stock ponds and irrigation ditches draw steady flights late afternoon, especially in dry years
- Cut fields — harvested grain draws birds; standing crops don't
Watch a field the evening before you hunt it. Count flight lines. Where birds cross the same fence post twice, set up there.
The setup
Keep it minimal: a stool or bucket, shells, water, and sun behind you. Birds flare at movement, so face away from where you expect shots and turn on the flush. A dog helps with recovery — doves land far and hide well. Without one, mark every downed bird carefully.
Heat and meat
September openers are hot. Plan like it's 90 degrees because it might be:
- Cool birds quickly; don't pile them in a bucket
- Bring ice if you're driving home with any distance
- Dress birds the same day for best eating — dove poppers are worth every step
Wrap-up
Improved cylinder, cheap #8s, an evening of scouting, and cold drinks for after. That's the whole formula for one of fall's most fun openers.
Sources Checked
- WDFW and ODFW migratory bird regulations — season dates and bag limits