Habitat and Landscape Overview
Dove hunting in Florida brings together the challenge of fast-flying birds and the diversity of a subtropical landscape. Understanding the different species of birds in the area, particularly the mourning dove, is crucial for effective and legal hunting. While the state may not have vast stretches of sunflowers or grain fields like in other southern states, it still offers abundant opportunities for hunters who know where to look. Public land fields, mowed clearings, and natural edge habitat provide the kind of open space doves prefer. The best action comes around freshly prepared areas with ample seed and good visibility, especially during the first split of the season when bird numbers are highest.
Public Land Opportunities
Florida’s public wildlife management areas provide access to dove fields prepared and managed by the state. Many states manage public fields for hunting doves by planting sunflower or millet fields on public or rented private land to provide hunting opportunities. These fields are often planted with millet, sorghum, or native grasses and may include mowed strips to encourage feeding. Some areas require a quota permit to hunt opening weekend or during the early portion of the season, while others offer walk-in access on a first-come basis. Fields such as Caravelle Ranch, Frog Pond, and Hilochee offer regulated access and attract hunters each fall. Studying the regulations and understanding field layouts helps maximize success. It is also important to check with local law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with local regulations. The timing and methods of harvesting these crops can significantly affect the availability of seeds on the ground, which attracts doves and makes these fields desirable locations for dove hunting.
Field Edges and Natural Openings
In addition to designated dove fields, many hunters in Florida find success along natural openings, pastures, and field edges where birds move between roosting and feeding sites. These areas may not be planted but still attract doves if there’s bare ground, seed availability, or a nearby water source. Using decoys, including spinning wing decoys, can effectively attract doves in these natural openings and field edges. Strategic decoy placement is crucial to encourage doves to land, especially in areas with low cover, tree lines for perching, and flyways where doves can travel without obstruction. Birds tend to move along the same paths daily, especially during the morning and evening feeding periods.
Early Season Advantage
Florida’s dove season opens in late September and is often best during the first few weeks. A successful dove hunt during the early season requires the appropriate gear, such as a shotgun and camouflage clothing, as well as effective techniques like patience and accuracy. The first week presents unique challenges and dynamics in public fields, with increased crowds and the potential for a good shoot amidst the chaos. Birds are plentiful, less pressured, and feeding in predictable patterns. Morning and evening shoots near freshly mowed or planted fields provide the most action. As the season progresses, hunting pressure, changing food sources, and weather shifts may cause doves to relocate. Keeping tabs on field conditions and moving to less pressured areas can help extend the season.
Setting Up and Reading Movement
Success in dove hunting often comes down to location and adaptability. Arriving early to wait and secure a good spot along a flight line is important, especially on public fields that draw heavy crowds. Paying close attention to wind direction can optimize the hunting experience, particularly during the doves’ active feeding times. Doves tend to fly with the wind, often approaching fields from the same direction depending on nearby roosting or feeding zones. Hunters should position themselves with the sun at their back and good visibility in front. Adjusting position as the hunt progresses, particularly if birds start favoring a different corner or edge, can keep the action within shotgun range.
Gear and Comfort
Dove hunting in Florida often means hot, humid conditions, so dressing in lightweight, breathable camouflage is key. It is also important to use safety equipment to protect oneself, such as hearing and eye protection, due to the risk of random pellets falling from other shooters. Comfortable seating, such as a stool or bucket, is essential while sitting and waiting for doves to approach. A stool or bucket seat, a small cooler with water, and a lightweight shotgun help keep the hunt enjoyable. Modified or improved cylinder chokes are most common, and plenty of shells are a must with these agile birds. Shade is limited in many fields, so planning ahead for sun protection and hydration is essential. A small game vest or shell bag helps manage gear while keeping birds separated and cool.
Later Season Tactics
As the season wears on, doves become more cautious and scatter into smaller groups, making it challenging to spot even a few birds. Targeting fields where crops have been harvested is crucial, as these areas often attract doves seeking leftover food sources. Cooler mornings and pressure from previous hunts make midday or late afternoon scouting more valuable. Natural flyways such as irrigation ditches, fence lines, and pasture edges become important for intercepting birds. Switching to lesser-known fields or targeting midweek opportunities when pressure is lighter can lead to better results. Doves may also key in on water sources during dry spells, offering another strategic point to set up near. Relocating to a different spot can significantly enhance your chances of finding doves.
Ethics and Conservation
Shared fields and public land hunts require cooperation and courtesy. Doves are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which underscores the legal protections for migratory birds and the responsibilities of hunters to adhere to these regulations. Respecting safe shooting distances, avoiding low shots, and communicating with nearby hunters all contribute to a safer experience. Picking up empty shells and removing trash preserves the quality of the field and reflects well on the hunting community. Supporting state programs that maintain dove fields and conservation land helps ensure continued access. Obeying bag limits and license requirements protects the resource for future seasons.
Conclusion
Dove hunting in Florida may look different than in neighboring states, but the hunting opportunities are abundant for hunters who know how to work public land and read bird behavior. Florida offers a unique wildlife experience specifically for dove hunters, with its diverse ecosystems and ample public hunting lands. From opening day excitement on managed fields to quiet evening shoots along field edges, each hunt offers a new chance to challenge your shooting skills and enjoy time outdoors. With scouting, patience, and an understanding of how doves move through Florida’s varied terrain, the season can be both productive and rewarding.
FAQs
When does dove season start in Florida?
Florida’s dove season typically begins in late September and is divided into three phases, with the first week offering unique challenges and dynamics. The first few days can be crowded and overwhelming due to high hunter activity, but they may also provide good shooting opportunities for those willing to endure the busy environment.
Do I need a special permit to hunt public land dove fields?
Not everyone has access to private fields, and some public fields require quota permits for the first few weekends, while others are open access with no special permit needed beyond your hunting license and HIP certification.
What should I look for when choosing a dove hunting spot?
Flight paths, nearby feeding and roosting areas, bare ground, and tree lines for perching are all good indicators of dove activity and can attract large numbers of doves.
What is the best time of day to hunt doves?
Morning and late afternoon are most productive as birds fly in and out of feeding areas, with doves feeding being particularly active during these times. Evening shoots near water or mowed fields often provide steady action.
Are there good public fields across the state?
Yes, areas like Caravelle Ranch, Frog Pond, and Hilochee are known for providing some of the best hunts for dove, and many WMAs offer seasonal field access across Florida.