As the leaves begin to turn a vibrant tapestry of autumn hues, it’s time to turn our attention to the highly anticipated Alabama dove season. The 2024-2025 schedule promises an abundance of opportunities for hunters to pursue these elusive birds. With two distinct splits, the season offers ample time for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the thrill of the hunt.
The first phase of the 2024-2025 Alabama dove season commences on September 1, offering avid hunters a chance to kick off the season with a bang. This initial phase extends through September 15, providing ample time to take advantage of the early migratory patterns. However, it’s important to note that specific dates may vary slightly depending on the county, so double-checking local regulations is crucial to ensure compliance.
Following a brief break, the second phase of the Alabama dove season resumes on December 12 and continues through January 15, 2025. This extended phase coincides with the peak migration for mourning doves, offering hunters an excellent chance to encounter large flocks. As the season progresses, hunters may adjust their strategies based on the behavior of the birds, such as using decoys or employing pass shooting tactics. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, the 2024-2025 Alabama dove season promises an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking Alabama wilderness.
Season Dates: Opening and Closing Weekends
The Alabama dove season for 2024 and 2025 will offer ample opportunities for hunters to enjoy the sport. The season dates have been set by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) as follows:
|
2024 |
2025 |
| Opening Weekend |
September 6-7 |
September 5-6 |
| Closing Weekend |
November 22-23 |
November 21-22 |
The opening weekend of dove season typically attracts a large number of hunters, as it is the first opportunity to pursue these popular game birds. Dove hunting is a relatively accessible sport, requiring only basic equipment and knowledge of dove behavior. Hunters can expect to find doves in open fields, agricultural areas, and near water sources during the season.
The Alabama dove season is divided into three hunting periods: the early season, the split season, and the late season. The early season runs from September 6th to October 24th in 2024 and from September 5th to October 23rd in 2025. The split season runs from November 10th to November 11th in 2024 and from November 9th to November 10th in 2025. The late season runs from November 22nd to November 23rd in 2024 and from November 21st to November 22nd in 2025.
Hunters should be aware of the daily bag limit of 15 doves and the possession limit of 45 doves. It is also important to follow all safety regulations and wear appropriate clothing and gear while hunting.
Bag and Possession Limits: How Many Birds Can You Take?
During Alabama’s dove season, hunters are allowed to harvest a daily bag limit of 15 doves per day, with a possession limit of 45 doves after the first day. Here’s a breakdown of the bag and possession limits:
Daily Bag Limit
The daily bag limit for doves is 15 birds per hunter. This means that each individual hunter can harvest up to 15 doves per day during the open season.
Possession Limit
The possession limit for doves is 45 birds after the first day. This means that hunters can possess up to 45 doves after the first day of the season, regardless of the number of days hunted. However, on the first day of the season, the possession limit is equal to the daily bag limit, which is 15 doves.
| Day |
Bag Limit |
Possession Limit |
| First Day |
15 |
15 |
| Second Day Onwards |
15 |
45 |
Shooting Hours: When Can You Hunt?
Dove hunting in Alabama has specific shooting hours that hunters must adhere to. During the early season, which runs from September 1 to September 15, shooting hours are from 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset daily. For the late season, which takes place from November 22 to January 15, shooting hours are from 12:00 pm to sunset daily.
It’s important to note that these shooting hours apply to all methods of dove hunting, including hunting over fields, shooting from blinds, and hunting over water. Hunters are not permitted to hunt doves before or after the designated shooting hours.
Here’s a table summarizing the shooting hours for Alabama dove season 2024-2025:
| Season |
Shooting Hours |
| Early Season (September 1-15) |
30 minutes before sunrise to sunset |
| Late Season (November 22-January 15) |
12:00 pm to sunset |
Legal Hunting Methods: Permitted Ways to Harvest Doves
Permitted Shotgun Actions
Using shotguns for dove hunting is permitted during all seasons. However, the use of fully automatic or semi-automatic shotguns is only allowed to harvest mourning doves. These shotguns may not hold more than three shells at any time, including those in the magazine and chamber.
Permitted Shot Size
The use of non-toxic shot sizes #7½, #8, or #9 is mandatory for dove hunting in Alabama. These smaller shot sizes reduce cripples and increase the likelihood of a clean kill.
Permitted Hunting Hours
Dove hunting hours vary depending on the season. During the early and late seasons, hunting can commence 30 minutes before sunrise. For the split season, hunting begins one hour before sunrise. All dove hunting must conclude at sunset.
Permitted Harvest Limits
The daily bag limit for doves is 15 birds. The possession limit is three times the daily bag limit, or 45 birds. It is important to adhere to these limits to ensure sustainable dove populations.
Other Permitted Methods
Decoys
The use of decoys to attract doves is permitted. However, decoys must not be placed in flight paths or within 100 yards of a bait pile.
Electronic Calls
Electronic calls that imitate dove sounds are permitted during the mourning dove season. However, these calls must not be amplified or used within 50 yards of another hunter.
Baiting
Baiting doves is prohibited. However, hunting over natural food sources, such as agricultural fields, is allowed.
Dove Field Identification: Distinguishing Mourning and White-Winged Doves
Differences in Appearance
Mourning doves are typically larger than white-winged doves, with a longer tail and more rounded wings. They have a dark brown back with a gray head and neck, and their underparts are a light brown. White-winged doves, on the other hand, have a gray-brown back and white wings that are bordered by a thin black line. Their underparts are a pale gray or white.
Flight Patterns
Mourning doves fly in a direct, unwavering manner, while white-winged doves have a more erratic flight pattern. White-winged doves also tend to fly in flocks, whereas mourning doves are more likely to fly alone or in pairs.
Vocalizations
Mourning doves have a distinctive “coo-coo-coo” call, while white-winged doves have a more varied vocalization. Their calls include a high-pitched “peep” and a “whoo-whoo” sound.
Habitat
Mourning doves are found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, woodlands, and urban areas. White-winged doves, on the other hand, prefer more open habitats, such as desert grasslands and scrublands.
Distribution
Mourning doves are found throughout the United States and Canada, while white-winged doves are primarily found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. In Alabama, mourning doves are the more common species, while white-winged doves are less common.
Safety Precautions: Stay Safe While Hunting
Wear Proper Clothing
To ensure your safety, wear bright and fluorescent clothing. Avoid wearing earthy tones that may blend in with your surroundings, as they can make you less visible to other hunters.
Follow the Four Rules of Firearm Safety
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- Never point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
- Only load a firearm when you are ready to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and beyond before you shoot.
Know Your Surroundings
Before hunting, familiarize yourself with the terrain. Identify safe shooting lanes and be aware of potential hazards such as obstacles, vegetation, and other hunters.
Be Aware of Your Backstop
Always consider where your bullet or arrow will end up if you miss your target. Avoid shooting towards roads, buildings, or other areas where people may be present.
Maintain Control of Your Firearm at All Times
Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction, even when it is unloaded. Ensure that the firearm’s safety is engaged when not in use.
Additional Safety Measures
Consider using a hunting blind to conceal yourself and minimize your visibility. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you. Learn and practice safe tree stand hunting techniques if necessary. Inform someone of your hunting plans, including your location and expected return time. Be mindful of your movements and avoid making excessive noise to prevent spooking game or alarming other hunters.
| Date |
Time |
| September 1, 2024 |
12:00 PM |
| September 30, 2024 |
Sunset |
| September 1, 2025 |
12:00 PM |
| September 30, 2025 |
Sunset |
WMA and Refuge Regulations:
Public lands in Alabama offer excellent dove hunting opportunities, but it’s important to be aware of the regulations specific to these areas. These regulations are designed to protect wildlife and ensure a fair and equitable hunting experience for all.
Special Rules for Public Lands:
1. Check-in Requirements:
Hunters are required to check in at designated check stations before and after hunting on public lands.
2. Bag Limits and Shooting Hours:
Bag limits and shooting hours vary by location and species. Check the Alabama Hunting and Fishing Digest for specific regulations.
3. Hunting Methods:
Permitted hunting methods include shotguns and bows. Electronic calls are prohibited.
4. Non-Toxic Shot Requirements:
Non-toxic shot is required when hunting on public lands.
5. Camping Regulations:
Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Permits may be required.
6. Target Practice:
Target practice is prohibited on public lands.
7. Safety Precautions:
Hunters must wear hunter orange clothing and follow all safety precautions, including being aware of their surroundings and maintaining a safe distance from others.
7.a Visual Distress Signals:
Hunters are required to carry visual distress signals, such as a whistle or air horn, while hunting on public lands.
7.b Communication Devices:
Hunters are strongly advised to carry a communication device, such as a cell phone or satellite communicator, in case of an emergency.
7.c First Aid Kit:
Hunters are encouraged to carry a first aid kit for minor injuries.
Weather Conditions: Impact on Dove Hunting Success
Weather conditions can significantly impact the success of your dove hunting trip. Here are some key factors to consider:
**Temperature:** Doves are cold-blooded animals, and extreme temperatures can affect their activity levels. Optimal hunting conditions occur when temperatures range between 55-75°F (13-24°C). In colder weather, doves may become less active and seek shelter, while in excessively hot weather, they may become overheated and sluggish.
**Wind:** Wind can affect dove flight patterns and make it difficult to shoot. Gusty winds can disrupt their flight paths, while strong winds can prevent them from flying altogether. Ideal wind conditions for dove hunting are light to moderate breezes (5-15 mph).
**Cloud Cover:** Cloud cover can influence dove activity by affecting visibility and feeding patterns. Overcast skies can reduce visibility and make it challenging to spot doves, while clear skies provide ideal conditions for hunting. Doves tend to feed more actively when there is some cloud cover, as this helps to conceal them from predators.
**Rain:** Heavy rain can deter doves from flying and make hunting unproductive. Light rain or drizzle may not have a significant impact, but heavy downpours can force doves to seek shelter.
**Humidity:** High humidity can make it uncomfortable for both hunters and doves. Excessively humid conditions can cause doves to overheat and become less active.
**Barometric Pressure:** Changes in barometric pressure can affect dove behavior. A rising barometer typically indicates improving weather conditions and can increase dove activity. Conversely, a falling barometer may lead to inclement weather and decreased dove activity.
Dove Hunting Etiquette: Respect for Landowners and Fellow Hunters
Respect for Landowners
As a guest on private property, it’s crucial to adhere to the following guidelines.
- Obtain permission before entering or hunting on private land.
- Respect the landowner’s posted signs and property boundaries.
- Leave gates as you found them, and close them securely.
- Avoid damaging crops or livestock.
- Remove all trash and belongings upon leaving.
Respect for Fellow Hunters
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hunt, show consideration for others.
- Avoid shooting in the direction of other hunters.
- Respect established hunting spots and maintain a safe distance.
- Refrain from excessive noise or disturbance, such as loud talking or driving off-road.
- Share the harvest if you’re fortunate enough to have success.
- Alert other hunters of any potential hazards, such as downed power lines or game animals in the area.
- Offer assistance if someone seems injured or lost.
- Respect the rights of other hunters to hunt the same area, even if you’re not in their party.
- Avoid blocking access to popular hunting spots.
- Be mindful of the noise level and avoid excessive firing.
- Be mindful of the property boundaries and avoid hunting or trespassing on other hunters’ land.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid shooting at low-flying aircraft or livestock.
- Be considerate of other property users, such as hikers, horseback riders, or fishermen.
- Respect the privacy of other hunters and avoid setting up near their blinds or stands.
Hunting Forecast: Predictions for the 2024-2025 Season
Dove Abundance
The 2024-2025 dove season in Alabama is expected to be good, with an abundance of doves in most areas of the state. This is due to several factors, including favorable weather conditions and ample food sources. However, some areas may experience lower dove numbers due to habitat loss or other factors.
Dove Distribution
Doves will be found in a variety of habitats during the 2024-2025 season, including agricultural fields, open woodlands, and urban areas. Hunters should focus on areas where doves are likely to feed and roost, such as around grain fields, water sources, and roosting trees.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can have a significant impact on dove hunting success. The ideal conditions for dove hunting are clear and sunny, with light winds. However, doves can also be hunted in cloudy weather, as long as there is not too much rain or wind.
Hunting Methods
There are a variety of hunting methods that can be used to hunt doves in Alabama. The most popular methods include pass shooting, field hunting, and dove decoy hunting. Pass shooting involves shooting at doves as they fly by, field hunting involves hunting doves in fields where they are feeding, and dove decoy hunting involves using decoys to attract doves to a hunting area.
Hunting Season Dates
The Alabama dove season dates for 2024-2025 are as follows:
| Zone |
Opening Day |
Closing Day |
| North |
September 1, 2024 |
November 9, 2024 |
| Central |
September 15, 2024 |
October 27, 2024 |
| South |
September 15, 2024 |
October 27, 2024 |
Bag Limits
The daily bag limit for doves in Alabama is 15 doves per day, with a possession limit of 45 doves. Hunters are also allowed to take up to five mourning doves per day during the early season, which runs from September 1-14, 2024.
Shooting Hours
Shooting hours for dove hunting in Alabama are from 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset.
License Requirements
All hunters in Alabama must have a valid hunting license, which can be purchased online or at any hunting license vendor. Hunters must also have a valid Alabama Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, which can be purchased online or at any hunting license vendor.
Safety Precautions
Dove hunting can be a safe and enjoyable sport, but it is important to follow all safety precautions. These precautions include wearing hunter orange, being aware of your surroundings, and never shooting at a bird that is flying towards you.
Additional Tips for Hunting Doves in Alabama
In addition to the information provided above, here are some additional tips for hunting doves in Alabama:
- Scout the area you plan to hunt before the season begins.
- Set up your decoys in a strategic location where doves are likely to fly.
- Use a variety of different calls to attract doves.
- Be patient and wait for the right shot.
- Have fun and enjoy the experience!
Alabama Dove Season 2024-2025 Schedule
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) has announced the dove hunting season dates for the 2024-2025 season. The early dove season will be from September 1, 2024, to September 15, 2024, and the regular dove season will be from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025.
Dove hunting is a popular sport in Alabama, and the ADCNR encourages all hunters to follow the rules and regulations for the season. Hunters must have a valid hunting license and a dove stamp, and they must be aware of the daily bag limit and possession limit.
People Also Ask About Alabama Dove Season 2024-2025 Schedule
What are the dates for the Alabama dove season 2024-2025?
The early dove season will be from September 1, 2024, to September 15, 2024, and the regular dove season will be from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025.
What is the daily bag limit and possession limit for doves?
The daily bag limit for doves is 15, and the possession limit is 45.
What type of dove hunting is allowed in Alabama?
Dove hunting is allowed by both shotgun and archery.
Where can I find more information about dove hunting in Alabama?
More information about dove hunting in Alabama can be found on the ADCNR website: https://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/dove.
