Dove hunting is one of the most popular and widely accessible wingshooting sports in North America and around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter or a newcomer eager to try your first hunt, dove hunting offers an exciting blend of fast-paced action, skill, and tradition.

In this complete guide by Hunt Nation, you’ll learn everything from when dove season starts and what gear to bring, to pro tips and international hunt options — like the famous Argentina dove hunts.

1.  What Is Dove Hunting?

Dove hunting involves pursuing mourning doves, white-winged doves, and other legal dove species with a shotgun — typically over fields, waterholes, or flyways.

It’s known for:

• Fast-paced shooting

• Social, casual hunting atmosphere

• Great for beginners and youth hunters

• Short seasons with high bag limits

Dove hunting is America’s most participated bird hunt, with over 1 million hunters in the U.S. alone, particularly popular in Texas, Arizona, and the Southern states.

2.  When Does Dove Hunting Season Start?

In most U.S. states, dove hunting season opens on or around September 1st, depending on the zone. There are often early and late split seasons.

Season Example:

Always check your local wildlife agency for the current year’s official dates.

3.  Texas Dove Hunting Hours

Texas is a top dove hunting destination, especially for opening weekend.

• Legal Shooting Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to sunset

• Bag Limit: 15 doves per day (includes up to 2 white-tipped doves)

• License: Texas Hunting License + Migratory Game Bird Endorsement + HIP certification

Tip: Texas is split into North, Central, and South dove zones — each with slightly different season dates. Know your zone before heading out.

4.  Dove Hunting Gear Checklist

Packing the right gear makes your hunt smoother and safer. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Gear:

• Shotgun (12 or 20 gauge)

• Shells (7.5, 8, or 9 shot size)

• Choke (Improved Cylinder or Modified)

• Camo clothing (lightweight, breathable)

• Hunting license + stamps

• Game vest with shell pockets & game pouch

• Dove stool or bucket seat

• Eye and ear protection

• Cooler for game transport

Optional:

• Dove decoys or spinning wings

• Camouflage blind or mesh netting

• Retrieving dog (trained)

5.  What to Wear Dove Hunting

Dove hunting often takes place in hot early-season weather, so wear:

• Light camo shirts (moisture-wicking)

• Breathable pants or shorts

• Wide-brim hat or ball cap

• Shooting gloves (optional)

• Snake boots or sturdy hiking shoes

Avoid blue or bright colors — doves have excellent vision and spook easily.

6.  What Choke for Dove Hunting?

Recommended Chokes:

• Improved Cylinder (IC): Best for close to mid-range (20–30 yards)

• Modified: Slightly tighter, for longer shots

• Do NOT use Full Choke — it’s too tight for doves and increases chances of missing or damaging meat.

Tip: Many experienced dove hunters switch between IC and Modified based on conditions (decoys vs. flybys).

7.  Dove Hunting Tips for Success

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, these tips can help you bag more birds.

Beginner Tips:

• Practice shouldering and swinging your shotgun before opening day

• Focus on leading the bird — not chasing it with your barrel

• Go with a group — multiple shooters help cover wide flyways

Advanced Tips:

• Scout fields and flyways the evening before

• Use motion decoys to attract flocks into range

• Hunt near sunflower, millet, or wheat fields

 Doves often fly in straight lines or low arcs, especially around tree lines and water sources — position yourself accordingly.

8.  Argentina Dove Hunting – The World’s Best Shotgunning

If you’re looking for the ultimate wingshooting experience, Argentina is the gold standard for dove hunts.

Why Argentina?

• Year-round hunting

• Massive dove populations (millions of birds)

• All-inclusive luxury hunting lodges

• Unlimited shooting — 1,000+ doves per day is common

Regions:

• Cordoba Province

• Santa Fe

• Santiago del Estero

At Hunt Nation, we work with top-rated outfitters in Argentina for fully guided, legal, and unforgettable dove hunting packages.

FAQs About Dove Hunting

Q: How to dove hunt as a beginner?

Start with a mentor or outfitted trip. Practice shooting clays beforehand. Focus on scouting locations with food or water nearby.

Q: What is the best choke for dove hunting?

Improved Cylinder is the most popular. Use Modified for longer-range pass shooting.

Q: What shot size is best for dove?

Use 7.5, 8, or 9 shots. Go smaller (higher number) for close shots and minimal meat damage.

Q: Can I use lead shot?

Depends on your state and location. Some areas require non-toxic shot — check local regs.

Q: What’s special about Argentina dove hunts?

Unmatched bird numbers, luxury lodging, and the opportunity to shoot thousands of doves in a single trip.

Plan Your Dove Hunting Trip with Hunt Nation

At Hunt Nation, we help hunters across the U.S. and internationally find affordable, ethical, and exciting dove hunting experiences — from opening day in Texas to high-volume trips in Argentina.

📍 Contact Hunt Nation:

• 📞 +1 307-637-5495

• 📧 info@hunt-nation.com

Let us match you with the perfect outfitter for your skill level, location, and budget.

Final Thoughts

Dove hunting is a gateway to wingshooting — fast-paced, social, and wildly rewarding. With proper gear, timing, and location, you’ll have no shortage of action. Whether you’re hitting the sunflower fields of Texas or the skies of Argentina, dove hunting is an adventure worth chasing.