Mississippi’s fertile fields and abundant woodlands create a haven for mourning doves, making dove hunting a cherished tradition for many Mississippians. As the summer heat wanes and fall approaches, wingshooters eagerly await the opening of dove season. This comprehensive guide equips you with everything you need to know about doves in Mississippi for the 2024-2025 season, from season dates and regulations to licensing costs and top locations.
Is dove season still open in Mississippi?
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) establishes the mourning dove hunting season each year. The 2024-2025 season promises exciting opportunities to chase these swift birds across the state. Here’s a breakdown of the key season details:
- Season Dates: Split season with three segments:
- North Zone: September 2nd – October 15th & October 28th – November 26th & December 30th – January 14th
- South Zone: September 2nd – September 24th & October 7th – November 5th & December 23rd – January 28th
- Shooting Hours: Half hour before sunrise to sunset
- Daily Bag Limit: 15 mourning doves, singly or in the aggregate (combined) of white-winged doves
- Possession Limit: 45 mourning doves, singly or in the aggregate of white-winged doves
Remember: Double-check the official MDWFP hunting regulations for any updates or changes before heading out.
Securing Your Mississippi Hunting License
Obtaining a valid hunting license is mandatory before you embark on your dove adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the licensing process:
- Resident Hunting License: Mississippi residents require a valid small game hunting license to participate in dove opportunities. Licenses can be purchased online through the MDWFP website or at authorized license vendors across the state. Resident small game license fees typically range between $20 and $30 depending on your age and residency status.
- Non-Resident Hunting License:Â Non-resident hunters need a non-resident small game hunting license to to take doves. Non-resident license fees are generally higher than resident fees.
Additional Considerations:
- Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program (HIP):Â All hunters, both residents and non-residents, must register for the HIP program before venturing into dove activities. HIP registration is free and can be completed online or at license vendors.
- Federal Duck Stamp (Optional):Â While not required specifically for doves, a federal Duck Stamp is necessary for all waterfowl hunters 16 years of age or older. If you plan on hunting ducks or geese in addition to doves, you’ll need a Duck Stamp.
Pro Tip: Acquire your licenses early, particularly if you plan on hunting during opening weekend. This ensures a smooth start to your dove season and avoids last-minute rushes.
Essential MS Regulations for Ethical Dove Pursuit
Understanding and following hunting regulations is paramount for a safe, ethical, and sustainable dove game experience. Here are some key points to remember for Mississippi dove hunters:
- Shotguns Only: Mourning doves can only be hunted with shotguns. The shotgun must not be capable of holding more than three shells at a time. Plugs can be used to achieve this requirement.
- Shot Size: Use shot sizes appropriate for doves, typically #7.5 or #8 shot.
- Electronic Calls Prohibited: The use of electronic calls to attract doves is strictly forbidden.
- Target Identification: Always be certain of your target before shooting. Mourning doves can be mistaken for other bird species, so ensure proper identification before firing.
- Respect Private Property: Always obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property. Mississippi offers abundant public hunting opportunities on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) managed by the MDWFP.
Top Dove Locations in Mississippi
- Coastal Prairies: The coastal prairies of Mississippi, particularly in Jackson and Harrison Counties, offer a unique blend of grasslands and agricultural fields, creating ideal dove habitat.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs):Â The MDWFP manages numerous WMAs throughout Mississippi, many of which provide excellent dove opportunities. These public lands offer a great option for hunters who don’t have access to private land. You can find a searchable map of WMAs on the MDWFP website [invalid URL removed]. Popular WMAs for doves include:
- Sunflower WMA (Leflore County):Â This large WMA offers diverse habitats, including agricultural fields and bottomland hardwood forests, making it a prime dove location.
- Bienville WMA (Scott County):Â This WMA boasts rolling hills, agricultural fields, and scattered woodlands, providing suitable doves.
- Homochitto WMA (Adams and Wilkinson Counties): This extensive WMA offers a mix of habitats, including bottomland hardwood forests, agricultural fields, and open grasslands, attracting doves throughout the season.
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