by: Luke Panzarella
Dove season in the Southeast is more than just the opening act of hunting season—it's a cherished tradition that brings together family and friends for days spent under warm skies, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Known for their speed, agility, and unpredictable flight patterns, doves provide an exciting and challenging hunt that appeals to both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a veteran or a first-timer, having the right gear and strategy is key to a successful dove hunt. In this post, we’ll cover the essential equipment, tips, and strategies for making the most of your dove season in the Southeast.
The Right Shotgun for the Job
When it comes to choosing a shotgun for dove hunting, versatility and comfort are paramount. Here are some keys to think about:
Gauge: The most common choices are 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns. A 12-gauge is the traditional choice, offering more power and a wider shot pattern, but a 20-gauge is lighter and easier to handle, especially for younger hunters or those who prefer a lighter recoil.
Guns: Some of our all time favorite dove guns include but are not limited to the Beretta A400 Xplor (12ga + 20ga), Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon (12ga +20ga), Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 (12ga + 20ga), Fabarm Autumn (20ga), Caesar Guerini Tempio Field (20ga), Fabarm L4S Gray Hunter, and the Rizzini BR110 Lite Luxe (12ga + 20ga).
Action Type: Semi-automatic shotguns are popular for dove hunting due to their ability to shoot 3 shells instead of two, and cycle quickly for follow-up shots, which can be crucial when doves come in fast. Over unders or side by sides are also a popular choice due to their traditional wingshooting application and simplistic actions.
Choke: An improved cylinder or modified choke is typically best for dove hunting. These chokes offer a good balance between spread and range, allowing you to hit fast-moving birds at varying distances. A full choke can come into play when you are hunting weary or pressured birds. The full choke performs best at further distances, constricting your pattern to be lethal out to almost 60 feet and beyond.
Choosing the Right Ammunition
Doves are small, but they’re fast and can be surprisingly tough, so selecting the right ammunition is essential:
Shot Size: No. 7 ½ or No. 8 shot is the standard for dove hunting. These smaller pellets provide a dense pattern, increasing your chances of hitting the fast-flying birds.
Load: Standard field loads work well, but if you’re hunting in an area where non-toxic shot is required, be sure to choose steel or bismuth options that match the performance of lead. You also want to shoot a high brass load, providing extra speed and power. The new Migra Ultimate Dove loads are a stacked 7 ½ & 9 shot providing the advantages for both a larger and a smaller shot packed into one load. These loads have been super popular this year yielding some great reviews so far.
Essential Gear for Dove Hunting
Beyond your shotgun and shells, there are a few other essentials that can enhance your dove hunting experience:
Camo Clothing: While doves are not particularly wary of bright colors, wearing camo or earth-toned clothing helps you blend into your surroundings. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for staying cool in the heat. Clothing like the Duck Camp drirelease crews & lightweight long sleeve shooting shirts keep you cool while protecting you from the sun on those hot days.
Shooting Glasses: Eye protection is a must, especially when hunting with a group. Shooting glasses not only shield your eyes from errant pellets but also help reduce glare and improve contrast, making it easier to track doves against the sky.
Hunting Stool or Bucket: A comfortable, portable seat is invaluable for long hours in the field. A bucket with a padded lid doubles as both a seat and a storage container for your shells and other gear.
Dove Decoys: While not always necessary, dove decoys can be effective in drawing birds closer to your position. A few well-placed decoys, either on the ground or attached to a spinning-wing mechanism, can simulate a feeding or resting flock and encourage doves to fly within range.
Strategies for Success
Understanding dove behavior and choosing the right location can make all the difference in your hunt:
Field Selection: Doves are creatures of habit, often flying the same routes to and from feeding areas. Look for fields with a good food source, such as sunflower, millet, or corn, as well as water sources nearby. Position yourself near these high-traffic areas for the best chances of success.
Timing: Early morning and late afternoon are prime times for dove hunting, as the birds are most active during these periods. Arriving at your hunting spot before sunrise or staying until dusk increases your chances of encountering flocks on the move.
Lead Your Shots: Doves are fast and unpredictable, so leading your shots is crucial. Aim slightly ahead of the bird’s flight path, and follow through with your shot to ensure the best chance of a clean hit. Practice on clays before the season opens to sharpen your shooting skills.
Be Ready for Follow-Up Shots: Doves often fly in small groups, so be prepared for quick follow-up shots if you miss or if multiple birds come into range. Having your shells easily accessible will help you reload quickly and stay in the action.
Conclusion
Dove season in the Southeast is a special time that kicks off the hunting year with excitement and camaraderie. By gearing up with the right shotgun, ammunition, and accessories, and by employing smart strategies in the field, you can make the most of your dove hunting experience. Whether you’re out for the thrill of the hunt, to fill your freezer, or simply to enjoy time outdoors with friends and family, the essentials covered here will help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and successful dove season.