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Take advantage of great weather and fewer crowds during late dove season.
The second season for dove hunting begins Friday and the Arizona Game and Fish Department expects it to be one of the better seasons in years due to great seasonal rains and an abundance of crops.
“The second season is good for a number of reasons: the weather is fantastic, there are fewer crowds, and quail and rabbit seasons are open too - offering a mixed bag,” said Mike Rabe, small game management supervisor for the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “Surprisingly, a very small percentage of early season dove hunters go out in the late season. Those that choose not to go are really missing out on a great opportunity and an abundant resource.”
The season runs from Nov. 21 into the new year ending Jan. 4, 2008. However, in order to hunt in 2009, you will need a 2009 hunting license. Your migratory bird stamp is valid for the entire 2008-09 season if you have it from hunting the early season in September. Licenses can be obtained at any department office or license dealer.
The daily bag limit is 10 mourning doves. White-winged doves are not open, nor are they typically found in the state during the winter months. However, in some areas bordering rural communities or near agricultural areas, hunters may encounter Eurasian collared-doves; there no limit on these birds, but it is required to leave one feathered wing until you reach your final destination for identification (on both species). Eurasian doves are large (bigger than a white-wing) and excellent eating.
“Late season dove is always good,” adds Rabe. “There are fewer hunters, and fewer hunters means more room for those who venture out. Because the second season allows for afternoon hunting, there is more flexibility for a morning and evening hunt.”
Shooting hours are one half-hour before sunrise until sunset – statewide. The best times to hunt are right before sunrise and about 1-2 hours before sunset, making this hunt convenient and accommodating for busy schedules. Start your day a little early before going to work to get into a quick flight of birds. Conversely, work through lunch and leave early to get to a local stock tank and finish off the day with wingshooting and a sunset. Either way, late season dove offers a link to the outdoors and an Arizona tradition.
For the 2008-09 dove hunting regulations, hunting tips, the small game outlook and more, visit www.azgfd.gov/hunting under the 'small game hunting' section.
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