Doves are a speÂctacular target for hunting, providing thrilling shot opportunities and delicious table fare. This is your go-to guide for the 2024-2025 Pennsylvania dove hunting season, encompassing eveÂrything you need to know; from season timings and ruleÂs to licensing needs and prime hunting spots.
Pennsylvania Doves: Understanding The Schedule
The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has designated two segments for dove games in the 2024-2025 season:
- Early Season: This segment kicks off on September 1st, 2024, and runs through November 23rd, 2024.
- Late Season: Enjoy a second chance to hunt doves later in the year, from December 19th, 2024, to January 5th, 2025.
Do Your Part: Pennsylvania Dove Regulations
Before heading out for a successful dove hunt, ensure you’re familiar with the following regulations set by the PGC:
- Required Licenses:
- A valid Pennsylvania hunting license or mentored youth permit is mandatory.
- You’ll also need a Pennsylvania Migratory Game Bird License (HIP) which can be obtained for free online or by phone through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Daily Bag and Possession Limits: The daily bag limit for doves in Pennsylvania is set at 15 birds, with a maximum possession limit of 45.
- Shooting Hours: Doves can only be hunted during legal hunting hours, which are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset throughout the entire season.
- Safety First: Always wear fluorescent orange while hunting doves on public hunting grounds.
- Ethical Hunting: Uphold ethical hunting practices by retrieving all downed or injured birds.
Securing Your Dove License
Acquiring the necessary licenses for doves in Pennsylvania is a breeze. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Hunting License or Mentored Youth Permit: Purchase your hunting license or mentored youth permit online through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website (https://www.pgc.pa.gov/HuntTrap/LicensesandPermits/pages/default.aspx) or at any authorized license issuing agent. Resident hunting license fees vary depending on age and residency status.
- Migratory Game Bird License (HIP): As mentioned earlier, this free license can be obtained through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website (https://www.fws.gov/) or by calling 1-877-HIP-PERMIT (1-877-447-7376).
License Costs:
Here’s a breakdown of the license costs:
- Resident Hunting License: $20.70
- Non-Resident Hunting License: $100.00
- Mentored Youth Hunting Permit (Free): Available for hunters under 12 years old when accompanied by a licensed mentor.
- Resident Senior Hunting License (Age 65+): $1.90
- Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (HIP): $3.50 (available online or at license issuing agents)
Gearing Up for Success: Essential Dove Hunting Equipment
While fancy gear isn’t essential, having the right tools can significantly enhance your dove hunting experience. Here are some key items to consider:
- Shotgun: A 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun with a modified or improved cylinder choke is ideal for dove hunting.
- Shot Shells: Select high-velocity shells loaded with #7 1/2 or #8 shot for optimal performance.
- Dove Decoys (Optional): Decoys can be very effective in attracting doves to your hunting location. Consider using realistic-looking models placed in fields or near trees.
- Camouflage Clothing: Blending in with your surroundings is crucial for successful dove hunting. Opt for natural-colored clothing that matches your hunting area.
- Comfortable Footwear: Comfortable shoes or boots that provide good traction are essential for navigating hunting grounds.
- Hearing and Eye Protection: Protect your ears and eyes while hunting by wearing shooting ear protection and safety glasses.
Top Pennsylvania Dove Locations
Pennsylvania offers a wealth of public hunting opportunities for dove hunters. Here are a few noteworthy locations to consider:
- State Game Lands (SGLs):Â The PGC manages numerous SGLs across the state, many of which provide excellent dove opportunities. Some popular options include SGL 252 (northcentral PA), SGL 188 (southcentral PA), and SGL 212 (southcentral PA). You can find a complete list of SGLs on the PGC website.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): WMAs offer another fantastic public hunting option. Several WMAs throughout Pennsylvania are known for good dove populations, including the Middle Creek WMA (Lancaster County) and the Pymatuning WMA (Crawford County).
- Walk-In Areas:Â The PGC’s Walk-In Program provides public hunting access on private lands enrolled in the program. Check the PGC website for participating Walk-In Areas in your region that offer dove opportunities.
Southeast Region:
- French Creek State Park (Berks County): This expansive park offers open fields, agricultural areas, and wooded edges – perfect dove habitat.
- Marsh Creek State Park (Chester County): Similar to French Creek, Marsh Creek provides a mix of open areas and woodlands, attracting doves throughout the season.
- Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area (Lancaster County): Managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, this area boasts strategically planted dove fields, making it a popular hunting destination.
Southwest Region:
- Ohiopyle State Park (Fayette County): Featuring open fields, farmlands, and scattered woodlands, Ohiopyle offers a good chance of encountering doves.
- Laurel Hill State Park (Somerset County): This scenic park provides a mix of habitats suitable for doves, including open fields, agricultural edges, and abandoned farms.
- State Game Land 205 (Cambria County):Â Public hunting land with managed fields specifically designed for doves.
Northeast Region:
- Lehigh Valley (Northampton and Lehigh Counties): The Lehigh Valley boasts a mix of farmland and wooded areas, creating ideal dove habitat. Public hunting opportunities can be found on State Game Lands within the region.
- Poconos Mountains (Monroe County): While primarily known for forests, the Poconos offer scattered farmlands and open areas that can attract doves.
- Delaware State Forest (Pike County):Â Similar to the Poconos, Delaware State Forest offers a mix of habitats with potential for dove games, particularly near agricultural edges.
Northwest Region:
- Pymatuning State Park (Crawford County): This massive park offers open fields, agricultural areas, and shorelines, creating a diverse habitat for doves.
- Allegheny National Forest (Warren County): While predominantly forested, the Allegheny National Forest has scattered farmlands and open areas that can attract doves.
Jacob Ross, an avid outdoorsman, is a seasoned bird hunter, particularly skilled in turkeys, doves, and snipes. With years of field experience and a deep understanding of bird behavior, Jacob shares his expertise through compelling content on DoveHunting.us. As the driving force behind various esteemed websites, Jacob's insights and practical advice cater to hunters of all levels, enriching their dove hunting adventures and nurturing a profound connection with the wilderness.