There’s something magical about a Colorado September. The aspen leaves begin to turn, the air carries a crispness that whispers of autumn, and the skies come alive with the whistling flutter of wings that signals one thing: it’s time for some of the most exciting wingshooting the West has to offer! This guide covers everything you need for the upcoming 2025-2026 campaign—from precise dates and zoning info to license details and pro tips. Let’s get you ready for opening day in the Centennial State! 🏔️
🎯 At a Glance: 2025-2026 Season Snapshot
For hunters who like to plan, here’s a quick overview of the primary species and their upcoming seasons. Remember, Colorado doesn’t have internal zones for these birds, making statewide planning a breeze!
| Species | Open & Close Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sep 1, 2025 – Nov 9, 2025 | 15 | 45 |
| White-winged Dove | Sep 1, 2025 – Nov 9, 2025 | 15 (combined) | 45 (combined) |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | Year-Round | No Limit | 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 & Details
Colorado offers a generous continuous season that tracks beautifully with migration patterns, giving hunters plenty of opportunities throughout the fall.
2025-2026 Official Dates:
- Mourning & White-winged Dove: September 1, 2025 – November 9, 2025
- Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zoning Info: Unlike some states, Colorado’s regulations are generally set statewide, making planning your hunts straightforward. Always double-check the specific wildlife area regulations if you’re heading to public land, as occasional local rules may apply.
Eurasian Collared-Dove Bonus:
- Season: No closed season! Hunt them year-round.
- Special Status: Classified as an invasive species, these birds were accidentally introduced in the 1970s and now provide a fantastic year-round opportunity without bag limits .
🐦 Beyond Doves: Other Winged Opportunities
The same fields and habitats that attract migratory birds often host other fantastic game species. While you’re posted up, keep an eye out for:
- Band-tailed Pigeon: This native pigeon has a limited season, usually in December. They are often found in oak woodlands and coniferous forests at higher elevations.
- Snipe: These migratory shorebirds offer a challenging, erratic flight pattern. Their season typically runs from September through December, overlapping perfectly with the dove season.
- Waterfowl: Early teal season often overlaps with the opening of dove season, providing opportunities for a mixed bag on certain properties .
Always consult the latest Colorado Parks & Wildlife regulations for specific seasons and bag limits on these species.
⚖️ Must-Know Colorado Regulations
Being a responsible sportsman means knowing and following the rules. Here are the critical ones for a safe and legal hunt:
- Legal Equipment: Shotguns are the primary legal firearm for taking migratory birds. They must be incapable of holding more than three shells total (magazine + chamber) .
- Ammunition: While lead shot is permitted for dove hunting in Colorado, many hunters opt for non-toxic shot, especially when hunting near water sources. Always check specific area regulations .
- Baiting Laws: It is illegal to hunt migratory game birds over a baited area. Normal agricultural practices are exempt, but hunters are responsible for knowing the field’s status .
- HIP Certification: Every migratory bird hunter must register for the free Harvest Information Program (HIP). This provides vital data for wildlife managers and is required in addition to your hunting license .
- Retrieval: Hunters must make a reasonable effort to retrieve all downed birds.
🎟️ License & Tag Fees for 2025-2026
Your license purchase directly funds conservation efforts in Colorado. Here’s the breakdown.
Resident Licenses:
- Small Game Hunting License: $34.11
- Youth Small Game Hunting License (Under 16): $12.66
- Senior Annual Small Game License: $10.46
Non-Resident Licenses:
- Non-Resident Small Game Hunting License: $95.02
- Non-Resident 5-Day Small Game License: $45.02
Note: Hunters under 16 do not need a license but must be supervised by a licensed adult 18 or older. Prices are subject to change; always verify with CPW.
✅ License Requirements Summary
So, what do you actually need in your vest?
- A valid Colorado hunting license (Resident or Non-Resident).
- Your free HIP certification number, written on your license .
- Hunter Education Card: Required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1949.
- No specific “dove stamp” is required beyond your hunting license and HIP registration.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find public land to hunt?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages numerous Walk-In Access (WIA) properties across the state, with over 170,000 acres available for public hunting. These are privately owned lands that CPW has leased for public access. Popular counties include Weld, Morgan, Adams, and Pueblo .
What’s the best strategy for scouting?
Focus on finding the trifecta: food (recently harvested wheat, millet, or sunflower fields), water (ponds with bare edges), and roosting sites (dead trees or power lines). Doves are creatures of habit but can change patterns quickly, so scout as close to your hunt date as possible .
How should I approach shooting these fast-flyers?
Doves can reach speeds over 55 mph! The most common mistake is shooting behind birds. Practice leading your targets and following through on your swing. Many hunters find improved cylinder or modified chokes work best with size 7.5 or 8 shot .
Are decoys effective for doves?
Yes! Doves respond well to decoys. A spinning-wing Mojo decoy combined with a few stationary decoys placed on a fence line or dead tree can significantly improve your success, especially as birds become warier later in the season .
🏁 Final Thoughts
The 2025-2026 wingshooting season in Colorado is shaping up to be another memorable one. With a generous continuous season from September through November, year-round opportunities on Eurasian collared-doves, and diverse public land access through the Walk-In Access program, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out there. Remember to pattern your shotgun, scout diligently, know the regulations, and always prioritize safety. Now get your gear ready, pick a spot with food, water, and roosting trees, and enjoy the fantastic wingshooting tradition that kicks off the hunting year in beautiful Colorado. Good luck and shoot straight!
