Best States For Mourning Dove Hunting Opportunities?

Choosing the Right Habitat

When selecting a location for mourning dove hunting, look for areas with open fields, agricultural land, and sparse tree cover. In Kansas, for example, the Flint Hills region offers a mix of tallgrass prairie and open fields that are ideal for dove hunting. In Oklahoma, the rolling hills and agricultural fields of the state’s eastern counties provide similar opportunities. When scouting for hunting locations, consider the time of year and the specific species you’re targeting. Mourning doves tend to congregate in areas with abundant food sources, such as sunflower fields and wheat crops.

Calling and Decoy Strategies

Effective mourning dove calling can be a key factor in successful hunting. Using a mouth call or a mechanical caller can help attract doves to your location. When using decoys, place them in an open, visible area to draw in birds. A common setup involves placing decoys in a V-formation, with the caller positioned at the center. This configuration can help mimic a dove’s natural behavior and attract birds from a distance.

Timing and Gear

When hunting mourning doves, timing is crucial. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times to hunt, as doves are most active during these periods. Be prepared with the right gear, including a shotgun with a modified choke and a scope or open sights. Bring plenty of shells, as well as a spotting scope or binoculars to help spot birds from a distance. In many states, including Kansas and Oklahoma, dove hunting seasons typically run from late summer to early fall, with bag limits ranging from 15 to 20 birds per day.