Ready to kick off the fall hunting season? There’s nothing quite like a social day spent in a dove field with friends and family. This guide covers everything you need to know for the upcoming season—from precise 2025-2026 dates and zoning rules to license info and pro tips. Let’s dive in!
🎯 Key Dove Types, Seasons, and Methods at a Glance
For hunters who like to plan, here’s a quick overview of the primary dove species and their respective seasons for the 2025-2026 period.
| Dove Type | Season Dates (North Zone) | Season Dates (South Zone) | Daily Bag Limit | Legal Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sep 6 – Oct 19; Nov 22 – Nov 30; Dec 13 – Jan 18 | Sep 13 – Oct 26; Nov 22 – Nov 30; Dec 13 – Jan 18 | 15 | Shotgun (non-toxic shot) |
| White-winged Dove | Sep 6 – Oct 19; Nov 22 – Nov 30; Dec 13 – Jan 18 | Sep 13 – Oct 26; Nov 22 – Nov 30; Dec 13 – Jan 18 | 15 (combined) | Shotgun (non-toxic shot) |
Table Note: The daily bag limit is a aggregate total of 15 mourning and white-winged doves combined .
📅 All Dove Seasons for 2025-2026
Alabama’s dove season is thoughtfully split into multiple segments to maximize opportunity. The state is divided into two zones—North and South—so always confirm which zone your hunting spot is in!
North Zone Seasons
(Includes all counties not listed in the South Zone)
- Segment 1: September 6 (Noon to Sunset only) → September 7 – October 19 (All Day)
- Segment 2: November 22 – November 30 (All Day)
- Segment 3: December 13 – January 18 (All Day)
South Zone Seasons
(Baldwin, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Escambia, Geneva, Henry, Houston, and Mobile counties)
- Segment 1: September 13 (Noon to Sunset only) → September 14 – October 26 (All Day)
- Segment 2: November 22 – November 30 (All Day)
- Segment 3: December 13 – January 18 (All Day)
Shooting hours on all other days are from one-half hour before sunrise until sunset .
🐦 Related Small Game Opportunities
While you’re out in the field, remember that Alabama’s public lands are rich with other small game species that share similar habitats. Their seasons often overlap with the dove calendar, making for a fantastic mixed-bag adventure!
- Bobwhite Quail: A classic Southern game bird that thrives in the same open fields and grasslands.
- Snipe & Rails: These migratory shorebirds offer a different challenge for wingshooters and are often found in wetter areas near dove fields.
- Woodcock: Another migratory bird that prefers young forests and thickets, providing a great excuse to explore different parts of Alabama’s diverse landscape.
For specific seasons and bag limits on these species, always consult the latest official Alabama Hunting & Fishing Digest .
⚖️ Key Regulations to Know Before You Go
Following the rules is part of being a responsible hunter and ensures these seasons continue for years to come. Here are the crucial ones:
- Bag Limits: A daily aggregate bag limit of 15 mourning and white-winged doves is in place .
- Legal Methods: Shotguns are the primary legal firearm for dove hunting. Archery is generally not permitted.
- Ammunition: Non-toxic shot is required. Lead shot is prohibited to protect the environment .
- Baiting: It is only legal to hunt over areas where grain has been scattered as a result of normal agricultural operations or planting. Always review the specific federal and state guidelines on baiting to stay on the right side of the law .
- HIP Certification: All migratory bird hunters must register for the free Harvest Information Program (HIP). It’s quick, mandatory, and helps biologists manage populations effectively .
🎟️ License & Tag Fees for 2025-2026
Your license fees directly support conservation efforts in Alabama. Here’s the breakdown for the upcoming season.
Resident Licenses
- All Game Hunting License (Includes dove): \$34.35
- Small Game Hunting License (Dove, no deer/turkey): \$22.75
- Wildlife Management Area (WMA) License: \$22.75 [Required for hunting on WMAs]
Non-Resident Licenses
- All Game (Annual): \$399.50
- All Game (10-Day Trip): \$246.60
- All Game (3-Day Trip): \$173.90
- Small Game (Annual): \$130.25
- WMA License: \$22.75 [Required for non-residents hunting on WMAs]
Note: All hunters 16 and older must have a license. Residents 65 and over are exempt from hunting license requirements but must carry proof of age and residency .
✅ License Requirements Summary
So, what do you actually need in your pocket when you head out?
- Hunting License: A valid Alabama All-Game or Small-Game license.
- HIP Certification: This is free but mandatory. You’ll be asked for it when you purchase your license.
- Hunter Education: Required for anyone born on or after August 1, 1977 .
- WMA Permit: If you’re hunting on public land, you need a free WMA permit. Non-residents also need the WMA license listed above .
- Stamp: A State Duck Stamp is not required for dove hunting.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special permit just for doves?
No. Your standard Alabama hunting license covers doves. The only additional, mandatory requirement is your free HIP certification .
Can I hunt Eurasian collared-doves in Alabama?
Eurasian collared-doves are not specifically mentioned in the provided regulations. However, they are often considered an invasive species with different, sometimes year-round, seasons. Always check the current year’s regulations for specific rules regarding this species.
Where are the best public lands to hunt?
The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division manages numerous Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) that offer excellent public dove hunting opportunities. Check their website for interactive maps and field locations .
What are the shooting hours on the first day?
The season opens with a conservative afternoon-only start! On September 6 (North Zone) and September 13 (South Zone), shooting is permitted from 12:00 PM noon until sunset only. This is a great warm-up for the full days to follow .
🏁 Final Thoughts
There you have it! Alabama’s 2025-2026 dove season is shaping up to be another great one with plenty of opportunities across its multiple segments. Remember to double-check your zone, grab your required licenses, and always prioritize safety. Now, get your gear ready, pick a spot, and enjoy the tradition of welcoming in the fall hunting season in the Heart of Dixie. Good luck
