 LITTLE
ROCK - Arkansas’ 2006-07 mourning dove hunting season begins Saturday
and it looks like it may be a hit and miss proposition for hunters. The
ongoing drought could be a problem, but at the same time recent rains
have provided some relief.
According to AGFC migratory bird biologist
Luke Naylor, finding water as always is the key to success during the
opening weekend. "The rain's been spotty this year, as dry as it has
been, it looks like the key is going to be finding a permanent water
source. Since the weather has been so dry, many dove may be concentrated
in areas near permanent water. The opposite could be true as well. Dove
may spread out if there are enough mud holes that are holding water,"
Naylor said.
"My gut feeling is that the dove will be pretty scattered. I
think the spotty rains should help move them around," Naylor explained.
"I think hunters should focus on areas where there is a good combination
of food and water," he added.
Hunters are reminded that they must possess a Migratory Bird Harvest
Information Program (HIP) Permit and a valid Arkansas hunting license to
hunt mourning doves. A state or federal waterfowl stamp is not
required. A HIP permit may be obtained anywhere hunting licenses are
sold. HIP registrations expire on June 30 each year.
Don't forget, the season does not end after opening weekend. There is
still good dove hunting to be had. Some of the best hunting, without
the crowds of opening day hunters, can be done during the October and
December segments of the season. Season dates
are Sept. 2 to Sept. 24, Oct. 7 to Oct. 22 and Dec. 16 to Jan. 5, 2007.
The daily bag limit for doves is 15 birds, with a possession limit of
30. Shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than three shells.
Hunters are reminded to practice safe hunting. Don’t take shots
at low-flying birds and risk endangering a fellow hunter on the other
side of the field.
Hunters are also asked to familiarize themselves with state and federal
laws and regulations that apply to dove hunting. If you have any
concerns or questions about baiting regulations, call your local AGFC
law enforcement officer. |