Introduction to Mourning Dove Hunting
Mourning dove hunting is a cherished tradition among hunters in North America, with the mourning dove being the most widespread and plentiful game bird on the continent. In Ohio, dove season typically kicks off on September 1, marking the beginning of an exciting period for dove hunters. These agile birds are often found in open fields, such as harvested corn or hay fields, and wheat fields, where they forage for leftover seeds.
To be successful in dove hunting, it’s crucial to understand the behavior and habitat of these birds. Mourning doves are attracted to areas with abundant food and clear flight paths. Hunters often use a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun with a modified or improved cylinder choke, loaded with #7 ½ or #8 shot, to bring these fast-flying birds tumbling out of the sky. Additionally, using dove decoys, such as battery-operated “Mojo” decoys, can effectively lure birds into the hunting location, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.
A Midwestern Tradition
When the heat of summer begins to fade and the fields of Ohio turn golden, dove season kicks off with a buzz of anticipation. The excitement of the season is palpable as hunters prepare for the fast-paced action. Hunters across the state take their place along field edges and fencerows, ready for the quick and often unpredictable flights of mourning doves. Opening day sets the tone, and for many, it’s the first taste of wingshooting in months. Ohio’s farmland, wildlife areas, and scattered grain fields create ideal habitat for dove hunting, especially in the early part of the season. The camaraderie of a hunting party adds to the shared experience, making each outing memorable.
Productive Field Types
Doves in Ohio are drawn to recently harvested fields, especially those with corn, wheat, or millet. Sunflower plots managed for wildlife can also be hotspots. Using dove decoys, such as the Mojo Voodoo Dove decoy, can significantly improve hunting success by attracting more doves to the area. What matters most is the availability of leftover seed and a clear flight path. Fields near water or lined with telephone wires and trees are even better, giving birds places to land and rest. The best shooting often happens where multiple field types come together, creating a natural funnel for dove movement. Trees located on the field edge provide strategic perches for doves, making it easier for hunters to target them when they come in to feed.
Timing the Action
Mornings and evenings are the prime windows for dove activity. Watching bird behavior during these times can provide valuable insights into their patterns. Birds typically fly at first light as they move from roosting areas to feeding spots, then again in the evening when they return. Midday flights are less consistent, especially on hot days. Getting set up before sunrise improves your odds of catching the first wave. Paying attention to bird direction and adjusting your position early in the hunt can help keep you in the action longer. Remember to wait for the right shot to increase your chances of success.
Public Land Access
Ohio offers a solid range of public hunting areas where dove fields are managed and planted by state wildlife agencies. These wildlife areas can fill quickly on opening day, so arriving early is key. It’s important to scout these areas in advance to observe doves' behaviors and determine the best spots. Many are mowed or burned ahead of the season to expose seed and increase visibility. Some require self-registration or sign-in procedures, and it’s worth scouting a few locations in advance in case your first pick is crowded. With a little planning, public land can provide excellent opportunities.
Flight Patterns and Shot Placement
Doves fly fast and erratic, making them one of the most challenging game birds to hit. Targeting a single bird amidst a flock requires precision and skill, as their agility and speed can be quite challenging. Watching how they move across the landscape and adjusting your aim accordingly takes practice. They tend to follow consistent paths between food, water, and cover, so positioning yourself in a flyway increases your chances. Setting up near natural funnels—gaps between trees, dips in the field, or corners—can turn a quiet sit into a busy shoot. To avoid missing shots, it's crucial to scout properly, select your shots wisely, and refine your shooting technique.
Improving Your Shooting Skills
Improving your shooting skills is essential for a successful dove hunt. One of the key aspects to focus on is patterning your shotgun. This involves testing the spread of the shot to determine the effective range, ensuring you know exactly how your gun performs. Practicing your shooting technique is equally important. Keep your eyes on the target and match your gun speed to the target’s speed to improve accuracy.
Experienced dove hunters often use a technique called “swinging through” the bird. This involves swinging the barrel of the shotgun through the bird’s path, ensuring a clean hit. Staying calm and focused, and avoiding the urge to rush the shot, can significantly improve your success rate. By honing these skills, you can increase your chances of hitting more doves and enjoying a fruitful dove hunting experience.
Safety Considerations in the Field
Safety is paramount when it comes to dove hunting. Always wear eye and ear protection to guard against the significant recoil of a shotgun. Be constantly aware of your surroundings and ensure you have a clear shot before firing. Adhering to all applicable laws and regulations, such as those related to bag limits and hunting hours, is crucial.
Handling firearms safely and responsibly is a must. Keep your shotgun out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals. By following these safety considerations, you can minimize the risk of injury or accident, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dove hunting experience for everyone involved.
Understanding Bird Behavior
Understanding the behavior of mourning doves is key to a successful hunt. These migratory birds travel in large flocks and can be found in various habitats, including open fields, woods, and even backyards. They are drawn to areas with abundant food and water and tend to follow established migration routes.
Mourning doves are highly social birds, often gathering in large groups. Their distinctive call, a low, mournful moan, can help hunters locate them. Setting up near areas with abundant food and water, such as standing corn or bare ground, and using dove decoys can attract these birds into your hunting area. By combining this knowledge with good shooting skills and safety considerations, you can enhance your chances of a successful and enjoyable dove hunting experience.
Heat, Gear, and Comfort
Opening day in Ohio can be hot and humid. Wearing light, breathable clothing and staying hydrated is essential. Make sure to have enough shotgun shells, as hitting the fast and agile doves requires plenty of ammo. A good dove stool or bucket, a box or two of shells, and a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun with a modified or improved cylinder choke are all you need. Eye and ear protection should always be worn. Sunscreen and insect repellent go a long way when the sun is high and the bugs are out. Comfort and preparedness help keep your focus sharp during lulls in the action. Remember, taking good shots is crucial for both accuracy and conserving ammo.
A Kickoff Worth Remembering
Dove hunting in Ohio isn’t just about the shooting. Practical tips for improving dove shooting include choosing the right shotgun, scouting for birds, and understanding shooting techniques to enhance performance. It’s about being there when the sun rises over the stubble, watching birds wing across a blue sky, and trading stories with friends between volleys. It’s the first day back in the field and the unofficial start to fall. Even a light bag of birds feels like a win when it comes with good memories and the thrill of the hunt. In Ohio’s fields, the season starts with a bang, and there’s no better way to step into it. The competitive nature of trying to hit the limit motivates hunters to refine their techniques and ammunition choices.
FAQs
When does dove season open in Ohio?
Dove season in Ohio usually begins on September first, with exact dates confirmed annually by state wildlife agencies. Utilizing effective hunting strategies, like the Mojo Voodoo Dove decoy, can attract doves like there's no tomorrow.
What fields attract doves in Ohio?
Recently harvested corn, wheat, millet, and sunflower fields near water or tree lines are highly attractive to doves. A bare tree can serve as an effective perch for doves, enhancing hunting opportunities as the birds come in to land. Trees located on the field edge are also strategic spots for attracting doves, as they provide perches for the birds, making it easier for hunters to target them when they come in to feed.
Are there public dove hunting areas in Ohio?
Yes, many wildlife areas across Ohio offer managed dove fields with planted crops and accessible hunting locations. It is crucial to scout these public hunting areas in advance to observe doves' behaviors and movements, particularly their feeding and roosting habits.
What time of day is best for dove hunting?
Early morning and late evening provide the best opportunities when doves are flying to and from feeding and roosting areas.
During these times, it is crucial to watch bird behavior, such as their flight paths and where they settle, to increase your chances of a successful hunt.
What gear should I bring for a dove hunt?
A shotgun, plenty of shells, a seat, water, sun protection, and eye and ear safety gear are essential for a comfortable and effective hunt.
Having enough shotgun shells is crucial, as hitting the fast and agile doves requires a lot of shooting, especially during the early morning sessions.