Quick Answer
Doves tend to fly lower during the early morning hours, typically between 30 minutes after sunrise and 2 hours after sunrise, and again during the late afternoon, between 2 hours before sunset and 30 minutes before sunset.
Early Season Dove Patterns
During the early season, doves are more active and tend to fly lower, often within 10-20 feet above the ground. This is due to the abundance of food sources, such as millet and sunflower seeds, which attract them to fields and agricultural areas. As a hunter, it’s essential to identify these patterns and adjust your strategy accordingly. Look for areas with dense vegetation, as doves often use these spots as roosting grounds and will fly lower in search of food.
Shooting Technique for Lower-Flying Doves
To effectively shoot doves flying lower, use a shotgun with a choke that constrains the spread of shot to around 10-12 inches at 20 yards. This will help you hit your target more consistently, especially when shooting at birds flying at close range. Additionally, consider using a longer barrel, such as 28 inches, to help you maintain control and accuracy when shooting at lower-flying birds.
Decoy Spread for Lower-Flying Doves
When setting up decoys for lower-flying doves, space them around 10-15 feet apart in a zigzag pattern. This will help attract the birds from different angles and induce them to fly lower. Place the decoys in areas with good visibility, such as near edges or in open fields, and use a minimum of 6-8 decoys per spread to create a convincing and appealing setup.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.