Dove season opens September 1

            Dove hunters have plenty to look forward to this year, especially those hunters who spend some time scouting before the Sept. 1 opener.

            “This could be a good year for dove hunters, but hunters may need to get out early and check their favorite spots. Overall this has been a dry, hot summer and that can change the food and water sources that dove use,” said Rod Smith, southwest region wildlife supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. “Hunters who go out and key in on areas the birds are using will have the most successful hunts.”

            Dove season is one of the most highly anticipated hunting seasons in the state – and it is no wonder why. Dove not only offer first class wingshooting and fine tablefare, dove hunting is an easy sport to get started in. A shotgun, an ample supply of shells and a place to go is all you really need to have a great day of dove hunting.

            “Dove hunting is great opportunity for friends and families to get out and enjoy the outdoors together, particularly considering the fact that the opening weekend of dove season coincides with Oklahoma’s Free Hunting Days,” Smith said.

            September 2-3 marks Oklahoma’s Free Hunting Days and Oklahoma residents do not need a hunting license to go afield.

            Dove can be found from one corner of the state to the next, but hunters do not have to travel far to find dove. Cattle watering ponds on private lands can be excellent places to hunt dove, particularly during dry years. Additionally, excellent hunting can be found on some of the wildlife management areas managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. In fact some areas of those properties have been managed specifically for doves.

            To find out more about where wildlife management areas are in the state, log onto wildlifedepartment.com and check out the free digital wildlife management area atlas. In addition to detailed maps, sportsmen can find additional information such as camping locations and contact information for local biologists.

            For complete hunting license information and dove hunting regulations, be sure to pick up a copy of the “2006-07 Oklahoma Hunting Guide” at a sporting goods retailer near you or at wildlifedepartment.com.

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