As summer fades and September approaches, North Carolina hunters eagerly anticipate the start of mourning dove season. These fast-flying birds offer one of the most exciting and challenging hunts of the year. Whether you’re a seasoned wing-shooter or a newcomer to the sport, preparation is key to a successful and enjoyable season.
Know the Dates and Regulations
Mourning dove season in North Carolina for 2025 is in three segments: September 02-October 05, November 09-30, and December 16- January 31. Shooting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset and the daily bag limit is 15 mourning or white-winged doves. There is no Sunday hunting for doves. Be absolutely imperative you verify your shotgun is plugged so that only two shotshells fit in the magazine and one in the chamber for maximum of three shells. Always check the NC Wildlife Resources Commission for the latest season dates, bag limits, and legal shooting hours for the property you’re hunting. Hunters must have a valid hunting license and a HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification. In addition, be aware that there is absolutely no baiting for dove.
Scout Your Hunting Spot
Doves are creatures of habit. They frequent open fields, agricultural lands, and water sources. Scouting a few days before opening day can reveal flight paths, feeding areas, and roosting spots. Look for freshly harvested grain fields or sunflower patches—prime dove magnets.
Public game lands across North Carolina offer designated dove fields, but they can get crowded. If you prefer solitude, seek permission to hunt private farmland. Just be sure to follow all safety and ethical guidelines.
Gear Up Smart
You don’t need a truckload of gear to hunt doves, but the right essentials make a difference:
- Shotgun: A 12 or 20 gauge with improved cylinder or modified choke works well.
- Ammo: Use #7.5 or #8 shot for optimal spread and knockdown power.
- Camouflage: Doves have sharp eyesight. Wear earth-tone clothing and consider a face mask or hat.
- Stool & Cooler: A comfortable seat and a cooler for your harvest are underrated luxuries.
Practice Your Shot
Dove hunting is fast-paced. Birds dart and dive unpredictably, so preseason clay shooting is a must. Practice leads, angles, and quick mounts to sharpen your reflexes.
Respect the Hunt
Ethical hunting means knowing your limits—both legally and personally. Retrieve downed birds promptly, avoid over-shooting, and respect fellow hunters. Dove hunting is also a great opportunity to introduce youth to the outdoors, so bring a friend or family member along.
With preparation, patience, and a touch of skill, mourning dove season can be one of the most rewarding experiences in North Carolina’s hunting calendar. So, load up, scout smart, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt. 🕊️
Dove Hunting Safety Tips
- Handle firearms safely: Always treat guns as loaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
- Keep distance: Stay at least 50 yards from other hunters and respect shooting lanes.
- Identify targets: Confirm it’s a dove before shooting—avoid protected species and low-flying birds near people or dogs.
- Protect yourself: Wear eye and ear protection to guard against noise and debris.
- Use correct ammo: Stick to legal shot sizes and avoid mixing ammunition.
- Watch for dogs: Keep dogs out of shooting lanes and never shoot near them.
- Stay weather-aware: Hydrate, wear sun protection, and dress appropriately for heat.
- Know the terrain: Understand land boundaries and hazards before hunting.
- Stay connected: Carry a phone or radio and let someone know your plans.