There’s a certain magic to an Arizona sunset in early September. The brutal summer heat begins to soften, casting a golden glow over the desert, and the air fills with the familiar, whistling flutter of wings. For many of us, that sound is the true starter’s pistol for fall. This guide is your one-stop-shop for everything you need to know about the 2025-2026 migratory bird hunting season in the Grand Canyon State.
We’re covering all the essentials—precise dates, zoning maps, license info, and pro tips—to ensure your opening day is a success. Let’s get you ready for some fast-paced action under the wide-open sky! 🌵
🎯 Quick Glance: 2025-2026 Season Snapshot
For the planners among us, here’s a high-level overview of the primary species and their seasons. Remember, Arizona is split into two distinct zones, so your location is key!
| Species | Open & Close Dates (North Zone) | Open & Close Dates (South Zone) | Daily Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sep 1 – Sep 15; Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Sep 1 – Sep 15; Nov 21 – Jan 9 | 15 |
| White-winged Dove | Sep 1 – Sep 15; Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Sep 1 – Sep 15; Nov 21 – Jan 9 | 15 (combined) |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | Year-Round | Year-Round | No Limit |
Note: The daily bag is an aggregate total of 15 mourning and white-winged doves. Eurasian collared-doves are unlimited and separate.
📅 Full Season Breakdown: Dates, Zones & Details
Arizona cleverly splits its season into two segments to align with bird migration patterns. The state is divided by a North/South zone line, which generally follows the northern borders of Coconino, Navajo, Apache, and Greenlee counties. Everything south of that line is the South Zone.
North Zone Seasons
- Segment 1 (Early Season): September 1, 2025 – September 15, 2025
- Segment 2 (Late Season): November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Shooting Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.
South Zone Seasons
- Segment 1 (Early Season): September 1, 2025 – September 15, 2025
- Segment 2 (Late Season): November 21, 2025 – January 9, 2026
- Shooting Hours: ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.
Pro Tip: The early segment is hot and social, with birds concentrated around water sources. The late segment is a cooler, more solitary hunt, often with larger flocks. Both offer fantastic opportunities!
Eurasian Collared-Dove
- Season: No closed season. Hunt them year-round!
- Bag Limit: No daily or possession limit. They are a fantastic way to practice your shooting and scout new areas outside the regular window.
🐦 Related Small Game Opportunities
The beautiful thing about hunting in the desert is the potential for a mixed bag. While you’re posted up near a stock tank or agricultural field for doves, keep your eyes peeled for these other fantastic game birds that share the habitat.
- Gambel’s Quail & Scaled Quail: The quintessential Arizona game birds! Their seasons typically run from early October through February, offering a perfect follow-up hunt after the early dove segment ends.
- Band-tailed Pigeon: This native pigeon has a limited season, usually in December. They are often found in oak woodlands at higher elevations and provide a unique challenge.
- Snipe & Rails: For those who love hunting wetter areas, these migratory shorebirds have seasons that generally overlap with the late dove segment.
⚖️ Key Regulations to Know
Being a responsible sportsman means knowing the rules. Here are the big ones for Arizona:
- Non-Toxic Shot Required: You must use approved non-toxic shot (steel, bismuth, etc.) for all migratory bird hunting on state-owned and federally managed lands. Lead shot is prohibited .
- Baiting: It is illegal to hunt migratory birds over a baited area. Know the federal definition—it’s more than just spreading grain. Normal agricultural practices are exempt, but when in doubt, scout a new spot.
- HIP Certification: Every migratory bird hunter must register for the free Harvest Information Program (HIP). It’s quick, mandatory, and provides vital data for wildlife managers. You’ll need your HIP number when you buy your license.
- License: A valid Arizona hunting license is required for all hunters 10 years and older.
🎟️ License & Tag Fees for 2025-2026
Your license fees are a direct investment in Arizona’s conservation efforts. Here’s the breakdown.
Resident Licenses
- General Hunting License (Type 1): $37
- General Hunting & Fishing Combo License: $57
- Youth Hunting License (10-17): $5
Non-Resident Licenses
- General Hunting License: $160
- Short-Term Combo (Hunt & Fish, 1-Day): $20
- Short-Term Combo (Hunt & Fish, 5-Day): $50
Note: A $15.50 application fee may apply for first-time license buyers. Seniors and disabled veterans qualify for special rates.
✅ License Requirements Summary
So, what do you actually need in your vest?
- A valid Arizona hunting license.
- Your free HIP certification number, written on your license.
- Hunter Education Card: Required for anyone born after January 1, 1967. If you’re older, you can purchase a license without one, but taking the course is highly recommended for safety and skill.
- No specific “dove stamp” is required beyond your hunting license.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
I’m new to the state. Where are the best public areas to go?
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) manages numerous Wildlife Areas (WAs) that offer fantastic public access. Popular spots include the Robbins Butte WA, Santa Cruz Flats, and areas around Yuma and Kingman. The AZGFD website has interactive maps that are invaluable for scouting.
Can I use lead shot on private land?
The non-toxic shot requirement applies to all state-owned and federally managed lands. On private land, you may use lead shot, but you must have written permission from the landowner in your possession while hunting. Always confirm with the landowner first.
What’s the deal with Eurasian collared-doves?
They are an invasive, non-native species. Because they can out-compete native mourning doves for resources, the state allows them to be hunted year-round with no bag limits. They are larger and often sit longer, making them great for beginners.
Do I need a stamp or tag for white-winged doves?
No. Your standard Arizona hunting license and HIP certification cover all migratory dove species. There is no additional stamp required.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The 2025-2026 wingshooting season in Arizona is shaping up to be another memorable one. With a strategic two-segment schedule across two zones, there are plenty of opportunities to get out there. Remember to pattern your shotgun with non-toxic shot, pack plenty of water for those early September hunts, and always prioritize safety. Now get out there, enjoy the stunning desert landscapes, and welcome another fall the best way we know how. Good luck
