Eager for the upcoming dove hunting season in Utah? WhetheÂr you’re a seasoned hunteÂr or a beginner, this straightforward guide will preÂpare you for the 2024 season.
It coveÂrs everything – season dateÂs, regulations, licensing costs, and the beÂst hunting locations. Get ready for a thrilling, successful dove seeking journey.
Understanding The Dates for Utah’s Dove Season
The Utah Wildlife Resource DepartmeÂnt (DWR) orchestrates the dateÂs for dove season each yeÂar, and minor changes might occur. This is a summary of the estimateÂd season dates for 2024:
- First Saturday after Labor Day (September 7th) through October 30th.
Pro Tip: It’s crucial to double-check the official DWR website closer to the season for any updates or changes: https://wildlife.utah.gov/
UT Dove Regulations
To ensure a safe and ethical hunting experience, familiarizing yourself with Utah’s dove regulations is crucial. Here are some key points to remember:
- Species: Mourning doves and collared doves are the two primary dove species you can hunt in Utah.
- Daily Bag and Possession Limits: The daily bag limit for doves is 15, with a possession limit of 30.
- Shooting Hours: You can only hunt doves during legal shooting hours, which typically begin half an hour before sunrise and end half an hour after sunset. Refer to the DWR website for specific times.
- Shotguns Only:Â Shotguns are the only legal firearm for doves in Utah. Plugged shotguns are allowed, with a capacity no greater than three shells in the chamber and magazine combined.
- Nontoxic Shot:Â Only nontoxic shot is permitted for doves.
Important Note: These are just some of the essential regulations. It’s your responsibility to be fully aware of all Utah hunting laws and regulations. You can find the complete hunting guide on the DWR website https://wildlife.utah.gov/hunting/main-hunting-page.html or by picking up a copy at any DWR office.
Securing Your Utah Dove License
Before you embark on your dove adventure, obtaining a valid Utah hunting license is mandatory. Here’s a breakdown of the license types and their associated costs (as of April 2024):
- Resident Hunting License: $55.50
- Non-Resident Hunting License: $120.00
- Combination Hunting and Fishing License (Resident): $82.00
- Combination Hunting and Fishing License (Non-Resident): $180.00
Additional Considerations:
- Habitat Stamp: A $10 Habitat Stamp is required for all hunters, regardless of residency.
- Youth Licenses: Discounted hunting licenses are available for Utah residents under the age of 18.
- Senior Licenses: Residents aged 65 and over may qualify for reduced-cost hunting licenses.
Pro Tip: Purchase your hunting license well in advance of the season to avoid any last-minute hassles. Licenses can be obtained online through the DWR website or at authorized license vendors throughout the state.
Top Dove Locations in Utah: Where to Find Feathered Friends
Utah boasts a diverse landscape, offering a variety of habitats suitable for doves. Here are some of the state’s best dove locations, categorized by region:
Northern Utah:
- Box Elder County: Home to vast agricultural fields, Box Elder County is a haven for doves, particularly mourning doves. Public lands like the Willard Spur Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Ogden Bay WMA provide excellent hunting opportunities.
- Davis County: Similar to Box Elder County, Davis County offers abundant farmland and WMAs that attract doves. Consider areas like the Farmington Bay WMA and the Antelope Island State Park for potential hunting grounds.
Central Utah:
- Tooele Valley: This valley, known for its mountain ranges and sprawling public lands, is a popular spot for dove seeking. The Timpanogos WMA and the Deseret Peak WMA are prime locations to target doves.
- Juab County: Agricultural areas scattered throughout Juab County attract doves, particularly collared doves. Public lands like the Mona Reservoir WMA and the Fillmore Hills WMA offer hunting opportunities.
Southern Utah:
- Washington County: The southwestern deserts of Utah, particularly Washington County, provide suitable habitat for doves. Public lands like the Shivwits WMA and the Beaver Dam Mountains WMA can be productive hunting grounds.
- Iron County: Similar to Washington County, Iron County offers desert terrain that attracts doves. Public lands like the Cedar Breaks National Monument and the Pine Valley Mountains WMA can be explored for potential hunting spots.
Remember: Scouting is critical for a successful dove hunt. Look for areas with water sources, agricultural fields, or natural vegetation that doves favor.
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