How to Dove Hunt
Dove hunting evolved more out of necessity than entertainment. In the latter months of the year, the Mourning Dove typically sets out on a trek to its roosting grounds in the Southern United States and Central America.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Camouflage
- Shotgun
- Small shot (7.5 to 9) shells
- Hunting license
- Migratory bird permit
Instructions
-
-
1
Locate a place to hunt such as a planted field. Millet, sorghum and sunflowers will provide the most action, though peanuts yield well also.
-
2
Arrive early in the morning before the sun rises and set up on the edge of the field in a spot that you can cover the most area. Be sure to wear camouflage. You will be panning across the sky for your shots so the longer distance from side to side the better.
-
-
3
Load the shotgun with the shells.
-
4
Wait for the birds to fly by, and when the doves start to appear take your shots.
-
5
Fill your quota of birds.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Semi-automatic shotguns are fantastic for taking doves due to their auto loading mechanism, though pump shotguns provide more sport and are just as accurate. Early morning and late evening are when you will take the most birds. Smaller-sized shot is better for doves as the birds have very fragile skeletons and do not require much to take down. By using smaller shot there will be more pellets and a better chance of hitting the bird. Leading the birds with the barrel slightly will ensure more hits.
Always make sure that you know where anyone else who might be hunting the field is located to avoid any injury. Exercise extreme caution when using a firearm of any kind. Always check the regulations before hunting and obey all game laws.
