Vermont stands out as a haven for birdwatchers seeking a glimpse of stunning avian species. Unlike many other states, Vermont has a year-round closed season on dove hunting, protecting gentle birds like the mourning dove.
Vermont’s natural landscape provides a safe haven for these birds to flourish, offering birdwatchers the chance to witness them in their natural beauty, from the mournful coo of a dove to the echoing call of a crane.
Does Vermont Have Dove Hunting?
If you’re planning a dove adventure trip, Vermont won’t be your destination. The state prioritizes dove conservation and prohibits dove hunting year-round.
This means you won’t find any hunting regulations or seasons for doves on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s official resources.
However, it’s crucial to double-check the latest regulations with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (VT F&W) for any potential variations http://vtfishandwildlife.com/.
What Do I Need to Hunt in Vermont?
To legally participate in hunting in Vermont, you’ll need to acquire the proper licenses and permits:
- Hunting License: A valid Vermont hunting license is mandatory for all hunters, regardless of age. Resident and non-resident hunting license fees can be found on the VTFWD website https://anrweb.vt.gov/FWD/FW/LicenseInformation.aspx.
- Federal HIP Permit: All migratory game bird hunters, including those with lifetime licenses, require a Harvest Information Program (HIP) permit. Exceptions include hunters under 16, senior citizens (65 or older), and landowners hunting solely on their property. HIP permits are free and can be obtained online or at hunting license vendors.
Obtaining the proper licenses for hunting in Vermont is a straightforward process. Here’s a table outlining the licenses and their corresponding costs:
| License Type | Resident Cost (USD) | Non-Resident Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting License (Annual) | $33 | $105 |
| Federal Harvest Information Program (Free) | Free | Free |
Pro Tip: Residents 65 years or older qualify for a reduced-rate hunting license. Additionally, first-time hunters can participate in the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s mentored hunting program, which waives license fees http://vtfishandwildlife.com/.
Daily Limits
The daily limit is not applicable as there are no dove games allowed in Vermont
Top Dove Locations in Vermont
While dove opportunities might be more limited compared to other states, Vermont offers a few promising locations:
- Lake Champlain Valley: The fertile farmlands and meadows bordering Lake Champlain, particularly in areas around Addison and Chittenden Counties, can attract doves during the early fall.
- Connecticut River Valley:Â The agricultural fields and riparian zones along the Connecticut River Valley, encompassing towns like Windsor and Fairlee, provide potential dove grounds.
- Eastern Vermont Lowlands: The valleys and meadows of eastern Vermont, near towns like Bradford and Ryegate, offer some scattered agricultural areas that might attract doves.
Pro Tip: Utilize the VTFWD’s online Wildlife Management Area (WMA) finder to explore interactive maps and regulations for specific WMAs that allow hunting https://dec.vermont.gov/water-investment/agency-facilities/Wildlife-Management-Areas.
Remember: Public hunting lands often have specific regulations regarding dove hunting. Always check with the WMA for any additional guidelines before heading out.
