There’s something magical about those first few weeks of September in the Mountain State—the air begins to crisp, harvest moons glow over golden fields, and the swift, darting silhouette of mourning doves signals the start of another incredible hunting season! If you’re eager to kick off your fall adventures with some exciting wing-shooting, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing these swift-flying birds in West Virginia for the 2025-2026 period. We’ll explore key dates, license info, prime Wildlife Management Areas, and pro tips to make your outings both successful and memorable.
🗓️ 2025-2026 Season at a Glance
West Virginia offers a split season for mourning doves, providing multiple opportunities to enjoy this exciting sport throughout the fall. Here’s the quick snapshot:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Oct 13, Nov 4-17, Dec 16 – Jan 17 | 15 | 45 |
Always confirm with the official West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) before your hunt.
🕊️ All Dove Seasons: Dates, Species & Details
Mourning Dove
- Season Dates:
- First Segment: September 1 – October 13, 2025
- Second Segment: November 4-17, 2025
- Third Segment: December 16, 2025 – January 17, 2026
- Shooting Hours:
- September 1: Noon until sunset
- All other days: One-half hour before official sunrise to sunset
- Zones: Statewide
- Methods: Shotguns only (must be plugged to hold no more than three shells)
- Bag Limits: 15 daily, 45 in possession
Eurasian Collared-Dove
- While not specifically mentioned in West Virginia’s regulations, these non-native birds typically have no closed season and no bag limit in most states, but always check current WVDNR regulations for confirmation.
Special Controlled Hunt Opportunity
- South Branch WMA Controlled Hunt: September 1-2, 2025
- Applications available through lottery system (typically due by July 1)
- Successful applicants receive assigned shooting stations
- Hunters may bring two guests
- After September 2, the area opens to all licensed hunters
🌾 Related Small-Game Opportunities
The agricultural areas and Wildlife Management Areas that attract doves often provide excellent habitat for other game species. While you’re scouting your favorite dove fields, keep these other opportunities in mind:
Wilson’s Snipe
- Season Dates: September 1 – December 16, 2025
- Bag Limits: 8 daily, 24 in possession
- Perfect for: Hunters who enjoy challenging wing-shooting in wetland areas
Sora and Virginia Rails
- Season Dates: September 1 – November 9, 2025
- Bag Limits: 10 daily, 30 possession (combined)
- Great for: Those who want to extend their hunting opportunities in marshier terrain
Woodcock
- Season Dates: October 12 – November 23 and December 2-5, 2025
- Bag Limits: 3 daily, 9 in possession
- Ideal for: Hunters looking for additional migratory bird opportunities as the season progresses
These species can be pursued alongside doves, making for an exciting mixed-bag hunt across West Virginia’s diverse landscapes!
📜 West Virginia Dove Regulations: The Essential Rules
Playing by the rules ensures everyone can enjoy hunting for generations to come. Here are the key regulations for dove hunting in West Virginia:
- Licenses & Permits: All hunters must carry a valid West Virginia hunting license and HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification. HIP registration is free but mandatory .
- Firearm Restrictions: Shotguns must be plugged to hold no more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined .
- Baiting: It is illegal to hunt over baited areas. Know the difference between legally harvested/manipulated crop fields and illegal baiting.
- Shooting Hours: Special hours on September 1 (noon to sunset); standard hours (½ hour before sunrise to sunset) apply for all other days .
- Field Identification: Only mourning doves may be harvested during the regulated season.
- Public Land Access: West Virginia offers numerous Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with excellent dove hunting opportunities. Some, like Hillcrest WMA, have specially managed dove fields .
- Band Reporting: If you harvest a banded bird, report it online at www.reportband.gov to assist with migratory bird research .
🎟️ License & Permit Fees for 2025-2026
Here’s what you’ll need to invest for your West Virginia dove hunting adventure:
| License/Permit Type | Resident Fee | Nonresident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting License | $23 | $111 |
| HIP Certification | Free | Free |
Youth, senior, and disability discounts may be available. Check the WVDNR website for specific eligibility requirements.
✅ License Requirements: Who Needs What?
- West Virginia Residents: Must have a hunting license and HIP certification. Hunters born after January 1, 1972, must show proof of hunter education training.
- Non-Residents: Must possess a nonresident hunting license and HIP certification.
- Youth Hunters: Specific youth hunting opportunities are available, though age restrictions have been removed for youth seasons .
- Seniors: Eligible for reduced fee licenses in some cases.
- Landowners: Must have a license to hunt on their own property.
- All hunters must carry their licenses while hunting and present them upon request by law enforcement.
❓ West Virginia Dove Hunting FAQs
🕒 When is the best time to hunt doves in West Virginia?
The season runs from September through January with three segments, but the first few weeks typically offer the best action as birds are concentrated around food and water sources before migration.
🌾 Where are the best areas for dove hunting in West Virginia?
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) like Hillcrest, South Branch, and Stonewall Jackson offer excellent opportunities. These areas often have managed dove fields with planted crops like millet, sorghum, buckwheat, and sunflowers .
🏞️ Can I hunt on public land in West Virginia?
Yes! West Virginia offers 96 Wildlife Management Areas across the state, covering approximately 1.4 million acres. These WMAs are specifically managed for wildlife and public hunting opportunities .
👕 Is blaze orange required for dove hunting?
No, blaze orange is not required for dove hunting in West Virginia.
🐕 Are retrievers helpful for dove hunting?
Absolutely! Well-trained dogs are excellent for finding downed birds in tall vegetation or crop stubble. It’s also a great way to tune up your canine companion for the upcoming waterfowl season.
🎯 What’s special about the South Branch WMA controlled hunt?
This unique opportunity provides designated shooting stations through a lottery system for the first two days of the season. It offers a less crowded experience on opening weekend .
🎯 Final Thoughts: Make the Most of West Virginia’s Dove Season
West Virginia’s dove season offers a fantastic opportunity to kick off your fall hunting adventures with some exciting wing-shooting action. With three distinct segments from September through January, there’s plenty of time to enjoy this cherished tradition. The state’s extensive network of Wildlife Management Areas provides excellent public access, and the diverse landscape ensures there’s always a new spot to explore. Get your licenses early, scout those agricultural areas and WMAs, and most importantly—cherish the time spent in the field with friends and family. Here’s to safe shooting, good marksmanship, and the thrill of whistling wings!
⚠️ It is your responsibility to verify all dates, zones, and rules with the official West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) before you head out. Safety first, and happy hunting!
