Howdy, hunter! There’s a certain magic to a North Dakota early fall evening. The sun dips low, casting long shadows across endless fields of wheat and sunflowers, and the air fills with the whistling wings of migratory birds zipping to their roosts. It’s a wingshooter’s paradise. If you’re dreaming of testing your aim against some of the fastest flyers on the continent, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is your comprehensive resource for the 2025-2026 hunting periods for migratory birds in the Peace Garden State. We’ll cover all the essential details—from precise dates and license info to regulations and a few pro tips—to ensure your adventure is both successful and unforgettable. Let’s giddy up! 🌾
Your Quick-Reference Season Table
| Species | Projected 2025 Season Dates | Daily Bag / Possession | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 29 | 15 / 45 | Primary game bird, statewide |
| White-winged Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 29 | 15 / 45 | Combined bag with Mourning Dove |
| Eurasian Collared-Dove | Open Year-Round | No Limit | Excellent off-season practice |
| Sandhill Crane | Early Sept – Late Oct (TBD) | 3 / 6 | Permit required; epic hunting |
| Common Snipe | Sept 1 – Nov 29 | 8 / 24 | Requires HIP certification |
All dates are projections based on current federal frameworks and are subject to change. Final dates will be set in summer 2025.
A Deep Dive into the 2025-2026 Hunting Periods
North Dakota offers a long, generous window for pursuing migratory birds, thanks to its prime location in the Central Flyway.
Mourning Dove & White-winged Dove
These are the main attractions for most hunters in the state. The season is typically continuous and long.
- Projected Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Projected Closing Date: November 29, 2025
- Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
- Bag Limits: The daily bag limit is 15 birds. The possession limit is 45 birds after the second day. This is a aggregate bag limit for mourning and white-winged doves, meaning your 15-bird total can include any combination of the two.
Eurasian Collared-Dove
This non-native species provides a fantastic opportunity outside the traditional framework. There is no closed season, no bag limit, and no possession limit. They are fair game all year long!
Other Fantastic Wingshooting Opportunities
The fun doesn’t stop with doves! North Dakota is a world-class destination for other migratory species.
- Sandhill Crane: Often called “the ribeye of the sky,” crane hunting is an incredible experience. The season typically runs from early September through late October. However, this requires a special permit obtained through a lottery draw. Applications are usually due in summer.
- Common Snipe: These erratic flyers love wet meadows and muddy edges. Their season generally runs concurrent with the dove season, from September 1 through November 29. Don’t forget—you need your HIP certification to hunt them!
Playing by the Rules: North Dakota Regulations
Knowing and following the rules is a non-negotiable part of being an ethical hunter.
- Harvest Information Program (HIP) Certification: This is MANDATORY for all migratory bird hunters. It’s free, but you must register each year. You can add it when you buy your license or through the Game and Fish Department’s website.
- Shotgun Plug: Your shotgun must be plugged to hold no more than three shells total (one in the chamber and two in the tube).
- Baiting: It is illegal to hunt over baited areas. An area is considered baited for 10 days after the removal of the bait.
- Non-toxic Shot: While not required for doves on most general hunting grounds, it is always a good practice and is required on all Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) and National Wildlife Refuges.
- Transporting Birds: You must leave a fully feathered wing or head attached to all migratory game birds while being transported.
Gear Up: License & Tag Fees for 2025-2026
Before you hit the field, make sure you’re properly licensed. Here’s the expected fee structure.
| License Type | Resident Fee | Non-Resident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| General Game & Habitat License | $50 | $200 |
| Small Game License (Doves, etc.) | $5 | $85 |
| Senior License (65+) | $5 | N/A |
| Youth License (Under 16) | $5 | $5 |
| Federal Duck Stamp (Required for waterfowl 16+) | $25 | $25 |
Who Needs a License? The Requirements
- Age: All hunters 16 and older must possess a valid North Dakota hunting license.
- Residency: To qualify for a resident license, you must have resided in ND for at least 6 months immediately before applying.
- Hunter Education: Anyone born after December 31, 1961, must have a certified hunter education course to purchase a license. The mentor-youth program allows those under 16 to hunt with a licensed adult without certification.
Your North Dakota Hunting FAQs
Q: How do I get my HIP number?
A: It’s easy! You can add it when you purchase your license from any vendor or add it yourself online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s licensing portal. You’ll need your license number to do it online.
Q: Where can I find good public land to hunt?
A: North Dakota has an incredible amount of public land through its PLOTS (Private Land Open To Sportsmen) program, along with state wildlife management areas and federal Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs). The NDGF website has interactive maps that are an invaluable tool for planning.
Q: Can I use my electronic license?
A: Yes! North Dakota offers digital licenses. You can carry a copy on your phone, and it is considered valid. However, it’s always a good idea to have a backup or a screenshot in case you lose service in a remote area.
Q: Is there a special youth season?
A: While there is not a separate youth-only season for doves, the general season opens on a weekend (Sept 1 is a Monday in 2025, but the first weekend is prime time), making it perfect for taking a young hunter out. The regular season is long and provides ample opportunity.
Final Thoughts
North Dakota’s 2025-2026 wingshooting season is poised to be another banner year. With a long, continuous season for doves and unparalleled opportunities for other migratory birds like sandhill cranes, it’s a destination every hunter should experience. Just remember to secure your license and HIP certification, review the regulations for your chosen spot, and always prioritize safety. Here’s to full game bags, stunning sunsets, and the unique thrill of hunting on the great prairies. Good luck!
📄 Always confirm all dates, zones, and regulations directly with the official North Dakota Game and Fish Department before you hunt. The definitive source is their website.
