The thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of fellow outdoorsmen, and the satisfaction of a successful harvest – dove hunting in Oregon offers all this and more. If you’re on the hunt for a heart-racing, bird-focused expeÂdition in breath-taking settings, Oregon’s got you coveÂred. All the information you need to have a successful dove adventure in Oregon for the 2024–2025 season is provided in this simple overview.
Schedule For Fulfilling Dove Hunt
Dove season in Oregon typically kicks off on September 1st and extends through the Mid December, with slight variations depending on the specific zone you plan to hunt. It’s crucial to double-check regulations with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for the most up-to-date information https://www.dfw.state.or.us/. Here’s a breakdown of the season structure:
- Western Oregon (Zone 1): This zone encompasses areas west of the Cascade Mountains and offers two hunting periods:
- Early Season (September 1st – September 30th): This period boasts the highest concentration of doves, particularly mourning doves.
- Late Season (November 15th – December 14th): Dove activity might be lower, but hunting near water sources can still be productive.
- Eastern Oregon (Zone 2): This zone covers areas east of the Cascade Mountains and has a single, extended season: September 1st – October 30th.
- Band-tailed Pigeon: September 15th – September 23rd
Regulations
- For hunting, your kit should include a valid Oregon hunting license and a free HIP (Harvest Information Program) cleÂarance.
- You’re allowed a maximum of 15 birds per day, but only 9 of those can be mourning doves.
- Hunting early in the season might be best, before the doves leave OreÂgon due to fall weather.
- Use ODFW’s Hunting Access Map to find public and private localeÂs open for hunting.
- Search agricultural regions for doveÂs, they’re easy to spot in grain fieÂlds. Remember to scout the area to learn the doveÂ’s routines.
- Find a spot near theÂir pathways or water sites and wait for them.
- DeÂcoys may help, but scouting matters most.
- Be gentle with doveÂs, their skin is thin. Keep theÂm chilled until they’re reÂady to be cooked.
- Their dark meÂat works well with many duck recipes.
- Hunting requires caution. Be mindful of otheÂrs and pets nearby.
- Always practice gun safeÂty rules.
- Stick to the basic rule: muzzle direction is down and no fingers on the triggeÂr until you’re ready.
- Stand out by wearing blaze orange.
Dove Licenses and Costs
- Oregon Hunting License: This is your basic hunting permit, and it’ll cover you for most small game including doves. Residents pay $53.50, while non-residents shell out $105.50.
- Small Game Hunting Tag: This tag is specific to small game hunting, and doves fall under that category. It’s $19 for residents and $42 for non-residents.
- HIP Permit: This free permit helps wildlife managers track dove harvests. It’s quick and easy to get online or at a license agent.
Here’s the sweet part: You can grab your licenses online at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website or swing by any authorized license agent in the state.
Top Dove Locations in Oregon
Oregon offers a diverse landscape perfect for dove opportunities for both western and eastern Oregon hunters. Here are some of the most sought-after locations:
Western Oregon:
- Willamette Valley: The Willamette Valley’s fertile farmlands provide abundant food sources for doves, making it a popular hunting destination. Look for areas with recently harvested grain fields or near rivers and ponds where doves congregate for water.
- Columbia River Basin: The Columbia River Basin offers vast open areas and agricultural fields, attracting doves throughout the season. Public Wildlife Areas (WPAs) like the Julia C. Lathrop Unit and John Day Wildlife Area provide excellent hunting opportunities.
Eastern Oregon:
- Snake River Valley: Eastern Oregon’s Snake River Valley boasts abundant grain fields, making it a haven for dove hunters. Public lands like the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge and Snake River Canyon Wildlife Area offer expansive hunting grounds.
- Deschutes Basin: The Deschutes Basin provides diverse terrain with grasslands, agricultural fields, and riparian areas. Look for WMAs like the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area and Deschutes River Corridor for potential hunting spots.
