As the heat of a Delaware summer begins to break, a subtle change sweeps through the agricultural fields and woodlots. The air fills with the whistling sound of swift wings, a sure sign that autumn is on the horizon and the most social wingshooting of the year is about to begin. This guide is your complete resource for the 2025-2026 campaign, covering all you need to know—from precise dates and regulations to license info and pro-tips. Let’s get you ready for a memorable season in the First State! 🌾
🎯 At a Glance: Season Snapshot
For a quick overview, here’s a summary of the primary species and their upcoming seasons. Delaware’s season is set within federal frameworks.
| Species | Open & Close Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sep 1 – Oct 25; Dec 16 – Jan 4 | 15 | 45 |
| Other Migratory Birds | Varies by species | Varies | Varies |
Note: The daily bag limit for mourning doves is 15. Always check the latest DNREC regulations for other species like woodcock or snipe.
📅 Full Season Breakdown: Dates & Details
Delaware offers a split season that aligns perfectly with migration patterns, giving hunters an early fall opportunity and a late-season holiday hunt.
2025-2026 Official Dates:
- Segment 1: September 1, 2025 – October 25, 2025
- Segment 2: December 16, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
Zoning Info: Delaware does not have internal zones for migratory birds, making statewide planning simple and straightforward.
Other Species:
While the mourning dove is the primary target, other migratory birds have seasons set by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife. These include:
- Woodcock
- Snipe
- Rails
Specific dates for these species are typically released in the late summer. Always consult the official Delaware Hunting & Trapping Guide.
🐦 Related Small Game Opportunities
The same habitats that attract migratory birds are often home to other game species, making for a potential mixed-bag adventure.
- Bobwhite Quail: A classic game bird that thrives in the same overgrown fields and agricultural edges. Their season typically runs from November through February.
- Cottontail Rabbit: These small game staples offer fantastic hunting throughout the fall and winter and can be pursued in the same brushy areas and field edges.
- Pheasant: The state releases pheasants on certain public lands, providing another exciting wingshooting opportunity, typically from November through January.
Always consult the latest Delaware Hunting & Trapping Guide for specific seasons, bag limits, and area information on these species.
⚖️ Must-Know Delaware 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 plugged to hold no more than three shells total (magazine + chamber) .
- Ammunition: Non-toxic shot is required for all migratory bird hunting on state wildlife areas and federal refuges. Lead shot may be permitted on private land, but always check the most current 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 and the regulations. When in doubt, choose a different spot .
- HIP Certification: Every migratory bird hunter must register for the free Harvest Information Program (HIP). This is mandatory and provides vital data for wildlife managers. You’ll need your HIP number when you buy your license .
- Land Access: Always obtain explicit permission before hunting on private land. Delaware has many public hunting areas; consult the DNREC website for maps and details.
🎟️ License & Tag Fees for 2025-2026
Your license purchase directly funds conservation efforts in Delaware. Here’s the breakdown.
Resident Licenses:
- Adult Hunting License: $32.50
- Junior Hunting License (Ages 13-15): $6.50
- Senior Hunting License (65+): $6.50
- License Exempt: Hunters under 13 or over 65 (with a required permit) can hunt for free.
Non-Resident Licenses:
- Non-Resident Hunting License: $135.00
- Non-Resident 3-Day Hunting License: $50.00
Note: All hunters must possess a valid hunting license, except those under 13 or seniors who have obtained their free permit. Prices are subject to change; always verify with DNREC.
✅ License Requirements Summary
So, what do you actually need in your vest?
- A valid Delaware hunting license (Resident or Non-Resident) or proof of exemption.
- Your free HIP certification number, written on your license .
- Hunter Education Certificate: Required for all first-time license buyers.
- No specific “dove stamp” is required beyond your hunting license and HIP registration.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find public land to hunt in DE?
The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife manages over 68,000 acres of public land across numerous wildlife areas. Popular spots for wingshooting include the Assawoman, Woodland Beach, and Little Creek Wildlife Areas. The DNREC website offers interactive maps and guides .
Is there a season for Eurasian collared-doves in Delaware?
As of the latest regulations, Eurasian collared-doves are not classified as a game bird in Delaware. They are considered an unprotected species, but it is illegal to hunt any wildlife that is not classified as game. Always check the most recent regulations for any status changes .
What’s the best strategy for scouting?
Focus on the trifecta: food (recently harvested corn or soybean fields, sunflowers), water (farm ponds, slow-moving creeks), and grit (gravel roads). Scout during the late afternoon to observe flight lines as birds move to roost .
Do I need a plug in my shotgun?
Yes. Your shotgun must be plugged to hold no more than three shells total (magazine + chamber combined) while hunting migratory birds .
🏁 Final Thoughts
The 2025-2026 migratory bird season in Delaware offers a fantastic tradition with its convenient split season. The early September segment provides a warm-weather welcome to autumn, while the December segment offers a cool-weather holiday hunt. With diverse public land access and the potential for a mixed bag, there’s every reason to partake. Remember to check if non-toxic shot is required for your chosen spot, secure your HIP certification, know the baiting regulations, and always prioritize safety. Now get your gear ready, find a promising spot with food and water, and enjoy the fantastic wingshooting that Delaware has to offer. Good luck
