Welcome to your one-stop guide for the 2025-2026 dove hunting season in Massachusetts! Whether you’re a seasoned wingshooter or new to the pursuit of these swift, agile birds, we’ve got you covered with up-to-date dates, zone maps, regulations, and tips. Doves are a popular game bird due to their challenging flight patterns and widespread availability, and Massachusetts offers several opportunities for hunters each year. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from season dates and license requirements to hunting methods and common FAQs—so you can hit the fields with confidence and enjoy a safe, ethical, and successful hunt. Let’s dive in!
🗓️ At a Glance: Massachusetts Dove Seasons Overview
Here’s a quick summary of the key dove hunting seasons and methods for Massachusetts. Note that all dates are based on proposed federal frameworks and state guidelines, so always verify with official sources before heading out .
| Dove Type | Season Dates | Hunting Methods | Zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 20, 2025 | Shotgun, Falconry | Statewide |
| White-winged Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 20, 2025 | Shotgun | Statewide (if present) |
| Eurasian Collared | Year-round** | Shotgun | Statewide |
| Eurasian collared-doves are not native and may have different regulations. Always check current rules. | |||
| *Subject to change; confirm with MassWildlife. |
📅 All Dove Seasons in Detail
Dove hunting in Massachusetts primarily focuses on mourning doves, though white-winged doves are occasionally encountered. Eurasian collared-doves, an invasive species, may be hunted under different rules. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 2025–2026 seasons:
| Species | Dates | Daily Bag & Possession Limits | Zones | Legal Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 20, 2025 | 15 / 30 | Statewide | Shotgun, Falconry |
| White-winged Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 20, 2025 | 15 / 30 | Statewide | Shotgun |
| Eurasian Collared | No closed season** | No limit | Statewide | Shotgun |
Note: Eurasian collared-doves are not protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but always verify with MassWildlife for any local restrictions . Hunting hours for all doves are from ½ hour before sunrise to sunset, as per federal migratory bird regulations .
🌾 Related Small Game Species: Quail and Snipe
While pursuing doves, you might also encounter other small game species like bobwhite quail and snipe, which share similar habitats and hunting methods. Here’s a quick overview:
- Bobwhite Quail: Although not native to Massachusetts, the state stocks around 4,000 birds annually in specific areas like Myles Standish State Forest and Francis Crane WMA. The season typically runs from October 15 to November 26, 2025, in zones 11-14, with a daily bag limit of 4 birds .
- Snipe: These migratory birds offer early-season opportunities from September 1 to December 16, 2025, with a generous daily bag limit of 8 birds. They inhabit wetlands and boreal areas, providing a fun challenge for hunters with pointing dogs .
Both species require the same basic licenses and stamps as dove hunting, but always check current regulations for any changes.
📜 Massachusetts Dove Regulations: Key Rules to Know
To ensure a safe and legal hunt, adhere to these essential regulations derived from state and federal guidelines :
- Hunting Hours: From ½ hour before sunrise to sunset.
- Bag Limits: 15 mourning doves per day, with a possession limit of 30.
- Legal Methods: Shotguns (no larger than 10 gauge, plugged to hold no more than 3 shells) and falconry. Non-toxic shot is not required for doves, but lead shot restrictions apply for waterfowl hunting in mixed bags.
- Baiting Prohibited: Hunting over baited areas is illegal. An area remains considered baited for 10 days after bait removal.
- Tagging and Reporting: While doves do not require tagging, hunters must retain one fully feathered wing attached during transportation. Reporting harvested doves is not mandatory, but reporting banded birds is encouraged at reportband.gov.
- Blaze Orange: Not required for dove hunting unless hunting in WMAs during pheasant or quail seasons or during deer seasons when transitioning to blinds.
- Electronic Calls: Prohibited for all migratory game birds, including doves.
Always review the official Massachusetts migratory game bird regulations for full details .
🎟️ License and Tag Requirements for Dove Hunting
To hunt doves in Massachusetts, you must carry the appropriate licenses and stamps. Here’s a breakdown of the 2025 fees and requirements :
| License/Stamp | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunting License | $36.50 | $108.50 (Big Game) or $74.50 (Small Game) | Required for all hunters 15 and older. Includes deer tags for big game licenses. |
| Wildlands Stamp | $5.00 | $5.00 | Added to the first resident license and all non-resident licenses. |
| HIP Registration | FREE | FREE | Required annually for migratory bird hunters; automatic when purchasing a waterfowl stamp or done online. |
Note: Youth hunters (ages 12–14) need a minor hunting license if required, but those under 12 may hunt without a license when accompanied by a licensed adult. Seniors (65–69) receive discounted rates, and residents 70 or older hunt for free . Licenses can be purchased online via MassFishHunt or at authorized vendors.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does dove season start and end in Massachusetts for 2025–2026?
The season for mourning and white-winged doves runs from September 1 to November 20, 2025. Always verify dates closer to the season, as they can be adjusted based on federal frameworks .
2. What licenses do I need to hunt doves?
You need a valid Massachusetts hunting license (resident or non-resident) and a HIP (Harvest Information Program) registration. The HIP is free and can be completed during license purchase or online .
3. Are there any specific zones for dove hunting?
Dove hunting is allowed statewide, but always check for local restrictions or wildlife management area (WMA) rules. Some public lands may have additional requirements .
4. Can I use electronic calls for doves?
No, electronic calls are prohibited for hunting migratory game birds, including doves .
5. Is non-toxic shot required?
Not for doves alone. However, if hunting in areas where waterfowl may be present, non-toxic shot is required for ducks and geese, so plan accordingly to avoid violations .
6. What is the bag limit for doves?
The daily bag limit is 15 mourning doves, with a possession limit of 30 birds after the first day .
✅ Conclusion
Dove hunting in Massachusetts offers an exciting start to the fall hunting season, with opportunities from September through November. Whether you’re targeting mourning doves or exploring related species like snipe and quail, being prepared with the right licenses, knowledge of regulations, and ethical practices ensures a rewarding experience. Remember to respect bag limits, hunt safely, and enjoy the time outdoors with friends and family. For those new to the sport, doves provide a challenging yet accessible entry into wingshooting. So grab your gear, double-check those dates, and make the most of the 2025–2026 season!
🚨 For official updates, visit mass.gov/hunting-regulations or contact MassWildlife directly at (508) 389-6300. Happy hunting, and stay safe! 🎯
