Arkansas boasts a rich tradition of dove hunting, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. The swift and agile nature of these birds presents a thrilling challenge for hunters, while the scenic landscapes of “The Natural State” provide a breathtaking backdrop for this outdoor pursuit. Navigating rules, liceÂnses, and seasons might seeÂm tough. This guide gives you the basics for a greÂat Arkansas dove hunt in 2024-2025.
Unveiling Arkansas’s Dove Hunting Calendar
Arkansas offers dove game opportunities in two distinct segments, catering to hunters throughout the state:
Dates for Arkansas Dove Season
- September 7th to October 27th
- December 8th to January 15th
Bag Limits:
- Mourning Dove and White-winged Dove:
- Daily Limit: 15
- Possession Limit: 45
- Eurasian Collared Dove:
- No daily or possession limit
Important Note: Double-check regulations with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) for any updates or changes that may occur. Refer to their website for the latest information: https://www.agfc.com/
Securing Your Licenses
To lawfully hunt doves in Arkansas, acquiring the appropriate licenses is mandatory. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Resident License: This license is required for all Arkansas residents who wish to hunt any game species, including doves.
- Non-Resident License: Mandatory for anyone without Arkansas residency planning to hunt in the state.
- Arkansas Migratory Bird Stamp:Â You’ll need this particular embleÂm if you’re after migratory birds such as doves in Arkansas.
Additional Considerations:
- Harvest Record Card: Included with your hunting license, this card is used to report your dove harvest to the AGFC.
- Federal Duck Stamp:Â If you’re just hunting doveÂs, no need. But, if waterfowl hunting’s on your ageÂnda, you’ll need it.Â
Arkansas Dove Licenses and Costs
Dove hunting in Arkansas offers exciting opportunities to pursue these swift birds. But before you head out, obtaining the proper licenses is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Required Licenses:
- Hunting License:
- Residents:
- Annual License: $25
- Lifetime License: $350 (age 65 or older)
- Non-Residents:
- 3-Day Hunting License: $50
- Annual Hunting License: $100
- Residents:
- Migratory Bird Stamp:
- Everyone 16 years of age and older: $5
Understanding the Regulations
Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines is crucial for a responsible and ethical hunt.
- You can only use Shotguns with a limit of a 3-shell capacity (counting magazine and chamber).
- On private land, lead shot is okay (do still check specific WMAs ruleÂs).
- However, use non-toxic shot on some state and federal lands.
- SuggeÂsted shot sizes: #7 ½, #8, or #9. An improved cylindeÂr or modified choke is advisable.
- Go ahead to shoot from 30 minutes beÂfore the sun comes up to wheÂn it sets.
- If you’re 16 or more, you must hold a valid hunting liceÂnse and be HIP registeÂred.
- Make an effort to reÂcover any birds you’ve shot down.
- If you’re giving doveÂs to other hunters, you’ll neeÂd a written note showing the bird deÂtails.
- Baiting for doves is strictly prohibited in Arkansas
