When Is Dove Season In California

Dove season in California is a highly anticipated time for hunters across the state. Knowing the exact dates and regulations is crucial for a successful and legal hunting experience. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to dove season in California, covering everything from specific dates and zones to necessary licenses and hunting tips. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, this information will help you prepare for dove season.

Understanding Dove Season in California

Dove hunting in California is regulated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The hunting season is typically divided into two periods: the early season and the late season. Each season has specific dates and regulations that hunters must adhere to.

Early Dove Season

The early dove season is the most popular time for dove hunting in California.

• Dates: The early dove season traditionally opens on September 1st and runs through mid-September. It's essential to check the CDFW website for the exact closing date each year, as it can vary slightly.
• Popularity: This season coincides with the migration patterns of mourning doves, making them more abundant and easier to find.
• Locations: Many public and private lands are open for hunting during this period, but it's important to verify access and any specific regulations for the area.

Late Dove Season

The late dove season provides a second opportunity for hunters later in the year.

• Dates: The late dove season typically opens in November and extends through late December. Again, confirming the exact dates with the CDFW is crucial, as they can change annually.
• Differences: The late season often sees fewer hunters, but the doves can be more wary due to hunting pressure from the early season.
• Species: This season may also offer opportunities to hunt other dove species that are not as prevalent during the early season.

Specific Dove Species and Regulations

California is home to several dove species, but the primary focus of hunting is on mourning doves and white-winged doves. Understanding the differences and specific regulations for each species is essential.

Mourning Doves

• Identification: Mourning doves are easily identified by their slender bodies, long pointed tails, and characteristic "coo" call.
• Regulations: The daily bag limit and possession limit apply to mourning doves, and these limits are generally consistent across both the early and late seasons.
• Habitat: They are commonly found in open habitats, including fields, grasslands, and areas with scattered trees and shrubs.

White-Winged Doves

• Identification: White-winged doves are larger than mourning doves and have distinctive white patches on their wings.
• Regulations: White-winged doves are also subject to daily bag and possession limits, which may differ from those for mourning doves. Always check the CDFW regulations for the specific limits in place for each season.
• Habitat: These doves are more common in southern California, particularly in agricultural areas and desert habitats.

Other Dove Species

While mourning doves and white-winged doves are the primary targets, other dove species may be present in California. However, some species may be protected, so it's crucial to positively identify your target before shooting.

Licensing and Permits

To legally hunt doves in California, you must have the appropriate licenses and permits.

Hunting License

• Requirement: A valid California hunting license is required for all hunters aged 16 and older.
• Purchase: Hunting licenses can be purchased online through the CDFW website, at CDFW license sales offices, or from authorized license agents.
• Validity: The hunting license is valid from July 1st to June 30th of the following year.

Upland Game Bird Validation

• Requirement: In addition to a hunting license, you must have an Upland Game Bird Validation to hunt doves.
• Purpose: This validation supports upland game bird management and conservation efforts.
• Purchase: The Upland Game Bird Validation can be purchased at the same locations as the hunting license.

Hunter Education

• Requirement: If you are a first-time hunter or under the age of 16, you may be required to complete a hunter education course.
• Content: These courses cover firearm safety, wildlife identification, hunting ethics, and regulations.
• Certification: Upon completion of the course, you will receive a hunter education certificate, which you must carry with you while hunting.

Where to Hunt Doves in California

California offers a variety of public and private lands for dove hunting.

Public Lands

• Wildlife Areas: The CDFW manages numerous wildlife areas throughout the state that are open to hunting. Some popular wildlife areas for dove hunting include:
  • Imperial Wildlife Area: Located in Imperial County, this area offers excellent dove hunting opportunities in agricultural fields and desert habitats.
  • Sonoma-Marin Marshes Wildlife Area: This area in the North Bay provides hunting opportunities in managed wetlands and grasslands.
  • Los Banos Wildlife Area: Situated in the Central Valley, this area offers dove hunting in agricultural fields and riparian habitats.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands: The BLM manages vast tracts of public land in California that are open to hunting, subject to specific regulations. These lands often provide opportunities for dove hunting in more remote and natural settings.
• National Forests: Some national forests in California allow dove hunting, but it's essential to check the specific regulations for each forest, as restrictions may apply.

Private Lands

• Permission: Hunting on private land requires the landowner's permission. Always obtain written permission before entering private property to hunt.
• Leasing: Some landowners lease their property to hunters for a fee. This can provide access to prime hunting areas with less competition.
• Cooperative Programs: Some cooperative programs connect hunters with landowners who are willing to allow hunting on their property.

Tips for a Successful Dove Hunt

Successful dove hunting requires skill, preparation, and knowledge of dove behavior.

Scouting

• Importance: Scouting is essential for identifying areas where doves are concentrated. Look for fields with abundant food sources, such as seeds and grains, as well as water sources and roosting areas.
• Timing: Scout in the early morning or late afternoon when doves are most active.
• Signs: Look for dove droppings, feathers, and tracks as indicators of dove activity.

Decoys

• Use: Decoys can be effective in attracting doves to your hunting location.
• Placement: Place decoys in open areas where they are visible to passing doves.
• Types: Use a variety of decoy types, including perched decoys and ground decoys, to create a more realistic appearance.

Camouflage

• Importance: Doves have excellent eyesight, so it's crucial to wear camouflage that blends in with your surroundings.
• Clothing: Choose camouflage clothing that matches the vegetation in your hunting area.
• Concealment: Use natural cover, such as trees, shrubs, and tall grass, to conceal yourself from approaching doves.

Shotgun and Ammunition

• Gauge: A 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun is commonly used for dove hunting.
• Choke: An improved cylinder or modified choke is recommended for dove hunting, as it provides a good balance of range and pattern density.
• Ammunition: Use lead or non-toxic shot, depending on the regulations for the area you are hunting. Common shot sizes for dove hunting include #7.5, #8, and #9.

Shooting Skills

• Practice: Practice your shooting skills before the season to improve your accuracy and consistency.
• Lead: Doves are fast-flying birds, so it's essential to lead them properly.
• Follow-Through: Follow through with your shot to maintain a consistent swing and improve your accuracy.

Safety

• Firearm Safety: Always handle firearms safely and follow all firearm safety rules.
• Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and other hunters in the area.
• Identification: Positively identify your target before shooting to avoid accidentally shooting non-game species or livestock.

Dove Hunting Ethics

Ethical hunting is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of dove populations and maintaining positive relationships with landowners and other hunters.

Fair Chase

• Respect: Respect the doves and give them a fair chance. Avoid using unethical hunting practices, such as shooting doves on the ground or using electronic calls.
• Regulations: Follow all hunting regulations and laws.
• Landowners: Respect landowners' property and wishes.

Conservation

• Habitat: Support dove habitat conservation efforts.
• Harvest: Harvest doves responsibly and avoid taking more than you need.
• Reporting: Report any violations of hunting regulations to the CDFW.

Respect for Other Hunters

• Courtesy: Be courteous to other hunters in the area.
• Space: Give other hunters plenty of space and avoid interfering with their hunts.
• Communication: Communicate with other hunters to coordinate hunting efforts and avoid conflicts.

Preparing Dove Recipes

Dove meat is delicious and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

Cleaning and Preparing Doves

• Plucking: Pluck the feathers from the doves as soon as possible after harvesting them.
• Gutting: Gut the doves and remove the internal organs.
• Washing: Wash the doves thoroughly with cold water.

Common Dove Recipes

• Dove Poppers: Wrap dove breasts with bacon and jalapenos, then grill or bake until the bacon is crispy and the dove is cooked through.
• Dove and Gravy: Brown dove breasts in a skillet, then simmer in gravy until tender.
• Grilled Dove: Marinate dove breasts in your favorite marinade, then grill until cooked through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Dove Season in California

• When does dove season start in California?
  • The early dove season typically starts on September 1st. The late dove season usually opens in November. Always check the CDFW website for the exact dates each year.
• What license do I need to hunt doves in California?
  • You need a valid California hunting license and an Upland Game Bird Validation.
• Where can I hunt doves in California?
  • You can hunt doves on public lands, such as wildlife areas and BLM lands, as well as on private lands with the landowner's permission.
• What is the daily bag limit for doves in California?
  • The daily bag limit varies depending on the species and the year. Check the CDFW regulations for the specific limits in place for each season.
• What is the best shotgun for dove hunting?
  • A 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun with an improved cylinder or modified choke is commonly used for dove hunting.
• What size shot should I use for dove hunting?
  • Common shot sizes for dove hunting include #7.5, #8, and #9.
• Is it legal to use lead shot for dove hunting in California?
  • The legality of using lead shot depends on the location. Some areas require the use of non-toxic shot. Check the CDFW regulations for the specific requirements in the area you are hunting.
• Can I hunt doves on Sundays in California?
  • Yes, dove hunting is allowed on Sundays in California, unless otherwise specified by local regulations.
• Do I need to wear hunter orange while dove hunting in California?
  • Wearing hunter orange is not required while dove hunting in California, but it is recommended for safety, especially in areas with high hunter activity.
• How can I find out about changes to dove hunting regulations in California?
  • Check the CDFW website regularly for updates to hunting regulations. You can also sign up for email alerts to receive notifications about changes to hunting seasons and regulations.

Conclusion

Dove season in California is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and participate in a challenging and rewarding hunting experience. By understanding the regulations, preparing properly, and practicing ethical hunting, you can have a safe and successful dove season. Always consult the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website for the most up-to-date information on season dates, bag limits, and other regulations before heading out to hunt. Happy hunting!