Texas Game Wardens offer tips to stay safe during dove hunting season

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — Dove hunting season gets underway this Sunday in Texas and state officials are urging those who are heading to the fields to exercise caution.

Texas Parks and Wildlife says there have been significant increases in both mourning and white-winged dove populations in the state, which is sure to draw more hunters.

Game Wardens have some recommendations to make your hunting experience a safe one.

They include:

Have valid hunting licenses, stamps and permits: Hunters must purchase valid hunting licenses for the 2024-25 before hitting the field. Hunters must also have a Migratory Game Bird Endorsement (Stamp) and Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification to hunt dove.

Have Hunter Education Certification: Game wardens across the state say the number one problem they run into is the lack of hunter education, which is required for anyone born after Sept. 1, 1971. TPWD’s Hunter Education certification is valid for life and is honored in all other states and provinces. Texas also honors Hunter Education certification obtained in other states but hunters must be able to provide proof upon request. Hunters can find more information on requirements, exemptions or print a replacement card at no cost online.

Know your firearm and handle it safely: The safest practice when handling firearms of any kind is to treat them like they are loaded. Maintain muzzle awareness, avoid pointing at any accidental targets and always have the safety engaged until you’re ready to fire. It’s also important to make sure you use the correct ammunition for your shotgun. Using the wrong size shell can result in accidents and injuries.

Hunt with a legal firearm: A shotgun is the only legal firearm for hunting migratory game birds. It also must not be larger than 10-gauge, and if applicable, must be plugged. When purchasing a new shotgun, pay attention to what is in the box, wardens caution. While manufacturers sell shotguns with plugs, they may not be installed in the gun.

Know your target and what’s behind it: Stay within your lane of fire so you aren’t shooting toward anyone else. Don’t shoot toward people or homes and know how far your shot can travel. While not required on private property, wear hunter orange clothing if hunting in a group for high visibility.

Don’t trespass: Hunters are responsible for knowing property boundaries and making sure they have landowner consent. This applies to hunting and retrieving birds from neighboring properties. If pellets cross onto another property, that is considered trespass by projectile, which is a violation and potentially unsafe.

Follow state and federal regulations, including daily bag and possession limits: Be aware of what zone you’re hunting in and what the daily bag and possession limits are. Hunters must also keep their birds separate and identifiable from other hunters’ birds. This will make interactions with wardens smoother and faster and is required by law while in the field and absent proper documentation.

Hunters in the South Zone should be aware of dates for the special white-wing dove days, which can be found in the Texas Outdoor Annual. Additionally, hunters are responsible for knowing whether they’re hunting a baited area or not. Hunting over a baited field is prohibited by federal and state law.

Bring the kids: Involving children in hunting is vital to continuing the hunting heritage of Texas. Wardens recommended eye and hearing protection for children and adults.

Be weather aware: Elevated temperatures will likely continue through the first part of dove season. Being aware of temperatures, staying hydrated and taking proper precautions is vital. If you feel dizzy or begin to exhibit signs of heat exhaustion, let someone know and find a spot to cool off. You should also always make sure someone knows your plans for the hunt like where you’ll be, when you’ll be done, etc.

Don’t forget about your four-legged friends. If you are hunting with dogs, make sure to bring plenty of water for them and monitor them closely for signs of heat stress.

Leave the alcohol at camp: Alcohol and firearms don’t mix. Consuming alcohol while hunting can lead to careless actions and potential accidents. It’s best to avoid it.

All hunting regulations for this year’s hunting season can be found in the Texas Outdoor Annual mobile app or at OutdoorAnnual.com. Being aware of the specific regulations for the county you are hunting in and the species you are pursuing will likely alleviate many of the above problems.