There’s nothing quite like the sound of whistling wings on a warm September afternoon to get a hunter’s heart pumping! If you’re ready to kick off the fall hunting calendar in Virginia, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for the 2025-2026 migratory bird period, from segmented dates and license requirements to pro tips and public land opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or trying wing-shooting for the first time, we’ve got you covered!
🗓️ Virginia Dove Season at a Glance
Virginia offers a split season for mourning and white-winged doves, providing multiple opportunities to enjoy this exciting sport. Here’s the quick reference table:
| Species | First Segment | Second Segment | Third Segment | Daily Bag | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning & White-winged Doves | Sept 1 – Oct 19 | Nov 22-30 | Dec 19 – Jan 19 | 15 | 45 |
Source: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
🕊️ All Dove Seasons: Dates, Species & Details
Mourning & White-winged Doves
- First Segment: September 1 – October 19, 2025
- September 1: Noon until sunset
- September 2-October 19: Half-hour before sunrise until sunset
- Second Segment: November 22-30, 2025
- Third Segment: December 19, 2025 – January 19, 2026
- Shooting Hours for Second/Third Segments: Half-hour before sunrise until sunset
- Bag Limits: 15 daily, 45 in possession (mourning and white-winged doves combined)
Eurasian Collared-Doves
- While not specifically mentioned in Virginia’s regulations, these non-native birds typically have no closed season and no bag limit in most states, but always check current regulations.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
- Dove hunting is permitted on numerous WMAs including Amelia, Briery Creek, Chickahominy, and more
- Special WMA Rules: During first segment, hunting only permitted Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Labor Day
- Note: DWR is shifting from intensive sunflower plantings to more diverse, cost-effective habitat management on WMAs
🌾 Related Small Game Opportunities
While you’re out dove hunting, keep these other species in mind that share similar habitats and seasons:
Snipe
- Season: September 29 – November 30, 2025 and December 19, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Bag Limit: 8 daily, 24 possession
- Special Requirement: Non-toxic shot required
Rails & Gallinules
- Season: September 6 – October 25 and November 11-30, 2025
- Bag Limits:
- Clapper/King Rails: 15 daily (only 1 king rail), 45 possession
- Sora/Virginia Rails: 25 daily, 75 possession
- Gallinules: 15 daily, 45 possession
- Special Requirement: Non-toxic shot required
Woodcock
- Season: November 11-30, 2025 and December 26, 2025 – January 19, 2026
- Bag Limit: 3 daily, 9 possession
📜 Virginia Dove Regulations: Know Before You Go
Playing by the rules ensures everyone can enjoy hunting for generations to come. Here are the key regulations:
- Shooting Hours: Vary by segment (see above)
- HIP Certification: All migratory bird hunters must register with Harvest Information Program (free)
- Shotgun Requirements: Plugged to hold no more than 3 shells total
- Baiting Restrictions: Illegal to hunt over baited areas
- Blaze Orange: Not required for dove hunting
- Safety First: Never shoot at or near electrical equipment or lines
- WMA Regulations: Special rules apply on wildlife management areas
🎟️ License & Permit Fees for 2025-2026
Here’s what you’ll need to invest for your Virginia dove hunting adventure:
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting License | $23 | $111 |
| Apprentice License | $23 | $23 |
| HIP Certification | Free | Free |
Youth and senior discounts available – check DWR website for details
✅ License Requirements: Who Needs What?
- Virginia Residents: Hunting license + HIP certification
- Non-Residents: Non-resident hunting license + HIP certification
- Youth Hunters: Residents under 12 don’t need license but must be accompanied
- Landowners: License exempt on their own property but still need HIP certification
- All hunters must carry appropriate licenses while hunting
❓ Virginia Dove Hunting FAQs
🕒 Why does Virginia have a split dove season?
The segmented approach spreads out hunting pressure and aligns with bird migration patterns, ensuring sustainable populations.
🌾 What’s the best habitat for dove hunting in Virginia?
Focus on agricultural fields, water sources, and recently harvested areas. DWR-managed fields on WMAs can be productive despite changes away from sunflowers .
🏞️ Where can I find public land dove hunting opportunities?
Virginia offers numerous Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with dove hunting opportunities. Check the DWR website for specific locations and regulations .
👕 Is blaze orange required for dove hunting?
No, blaze orange is not required for dove hunting in Virginia .
🐕 Can I use a dog for retrieving doves?
Yes! Well-trained retrievers are excellent for finding downed birds. Just remember to bring water for your furry hunting partner.
🎯 What’s the best time to hunt doves?
Early mornings and late afternoons are typically most productive, as birds are moving between roosting and feeding areas.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Make Your Virginia Dove Season Memorable
Virginia’s split dove season offers multiple opportunities to enjoy some of the finest wing-shooting the East Coast has to offer. From the warm, action-packed September opener to the crisp days of January, there’s a experience for every hunter. Get your licenses squared away, find a good field, practice your swing, and get ready for an unforgettable time. Here’s to safe shooting, good marksmanship, and the thrill of the hunt!
⚠️ This guide provides general information for the 2025-2026 season but regulations can change. Always check the official Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website for the most current rules, dates, and requirements before heading into the field.
