Calling all Minnesota hunters! Are you looking to add a new challenge to your hunting repertoire? Then look no further than dove hunting. Mourning doves are a popular game bird in the state, offering exciting wingshooting opportunities during the early fall. This detailed guide provides all the essential information you need for a successful and enjoyable dove adventure in the Land of 10,000 Lakes (and mourning doves!).
What is the best time to hunt doves in Minnesota
Get ready to chase those speedy little doves! The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is in charge of setting the dates, and the 2024-2025 season is set to kick off on September 1st and runs all the way to November 29th.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key season details:
- September 1st – November 29th
- Half hour before sunrise to sunset
- 15 mourning doves
- Possession of 45 mourning doves
What license do you need to hunt dove in MN
- If you’re 18 and aboveÂ, a small game license for dove hunting costs $22.
- For 16 and 17 years old, this same license is $5.
- Hunters coming from outside should know it’s $102 for 18 and older.
- Non-reÂsident dove hunters ageÂd 16 to 17 only need to spend $5 for theÂir license.
Mourning Dove Regulations
- Shotgun restrictions: Forget blasting away with your fancy shotgun that holds more than 3 shells. Dove hunting here requires shotguns plugged to only hold a maximum of 3 shells.
- Respect the power lines: Shooting doves or any other game bird from power lines is a big no-no in Minnesota.
- Mind the weather: Early dove season can be hot, so be sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and your furry hunting companion.
- Scout for the right spots: Doves love agricultural areas in western and southern Minnesota. Look for areas with food, water, grit, and roosting locations. They also love feeding in wheat, oat, and sunflower fields but remember, you’ll need permission from the landowner to hunt on private property.
Top Dove Locations in Minnesota
Minnesota boasts a diverse landscape, offering numerous opportunities for dove seeking. Here are some of the top locations to consider:
- West Central Minnesota: This region is known for its abundant agricultural fields, a prime habitat for mourning doves. Areas around counties like Clay, Becker, and Otter Tail offer excellent dove opportunities.
- Red River Valley: The fertile Red River Valley in northwest Minnesota provides ideal dove habitat. Look for hunting opportunities near counties like Marshall, Polk, and Kittson.
- Southwest Minnesota: The agricultural lands of southwest Minnesota, particularly around counties like Lincoln, Lyon, and Redwood, attract large numbers of doves during the fall.
- Western Minnesota: This region boasts vast agricultural fields, a prime habitat for mourning doves. Popular areas include counties like Lac Qui Parle, Marshall, and Big Stone.
- Southern Minnesota: Similar to western Minnesota, the southern part of the state offers abundant agricultural lands. Consider hunting in counties like Renville, Sibley, and Le Sueur.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): The Minnesota DNR manages numerous WMAs across the state, many of which offer dove opportunities. WMAs provide public hunting land, a great option for those who don’t have access to private land. The DNR website offers a searchable database to locate WMAs in your area.
FAQs
Q: Dove season just opened in another state, can I hunt doves in Minnesota too?
A: Minnesota’s mourning dove season is different. While it typically runs from September 1 to November 29 for the year 2024.
Q: Okay, so I waited, and the season is open. Do I need a special license to hunt doves?
A: As long as you have a valid small game license, you’re good to go. Residents can even hunt doves on their own property without a license. But remember, everyone who hunts doves needs to register with the HIP (Harvest Information Program) for free online.
Q: I hear dove hunting is huge in some states. Is it a big deal in Minnesota?
A: Not as much as in southern states. Here, dove hunting is more about finding the right spot with the right resources.
Q: Can I use electronic decoys to attract mourning doves in Minnesota?
A: Unlike some states, Minnesota allows the use of motorized decoys to attract mourning doves. Remote controls are also permitted for operating these decoys.
