There’s something magical about those first few weeks of September in Wyoming—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 the Cowboy State for the 2025-2026 period. We’ll explore key dates, license info, prime locations, and pro tips to make your outings both successful and memorable.
🗓️ 2025-2026 Season at a Glance
Wyoming offers a generous window for mourning dove hunting, perfect for both early season enthusiasts and those looking to extend their hunting adventures into autumn. Here’s the quick snapshot:
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | Sept 1 – Nov 29, 2025 | 15 | 45 |
Always confirm with the official Wyoming Game & Fish Department (WGFD) before your hunt.
🕊️ All Dove Seasons: Dates, Species & Details
Mourning Dove
- Season Dates: September 1 – November 29, 2025
- Shooting Hours: 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
- Special Note: Non-toxic shot is not required for dove hunting in Wyoming, except on specific wildlife management areas
Eurasian Collared-Dove
- While not specifically mentioned in Wyoming’s regulations, these non-native birds typically have no closed season and no bag limit in most states, but always check current WGFD regulations for confirmation.
🌾 Related Small-Game Opportunities
The agricultural 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: 25 daily, 75 possession (combined)
- Great for: Those who want to extend their hunting opportunities in marshier terrain
Sage Grouse
- Season Dates: Varies by region (typically September-October)
- Special Requirement: Free sage-grouse hunting permit required for all licensed hunters
- Note: Hunting is closed in some regions due to small and isolated populations
These species can be pursued alongside doves, making for an exciting mixed-bag hunt across Wyoming’s diverse landscapes!
📜 Wyoming 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 Wyoming:
- Licenses & Permits: All hunters must carry a valid Wyoming small game license and HIP (Harvest Information Program) certification. The HIP permit is free but mandatory for all migratory bird hunters .
- 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. Federal regulations governing baiting of migratory game birds are adopted as Wyoming regulations .
- Shooting Hours: Hunting is permitted from one-half hour before official sunrise to sunset.
- Field Identification: One fully-feathered wing or the feathered head must remain naturally attached to all migratory game birds except mourning doves during transport .
- Public Land Access: Wyoming offers numerous Walk-In Areas (WIAs) and Hunter Management Areas (HMAs) for public hunting access .
- Band Reporting: If you harvest a banded bird, report it to assist with migratory bird research.
🎟️ License & Permit Fees for 2025-2026
Here’s what you’ll need to invest for your Wyoming dove hunting adventure:
| License/Permit Type | Resident Fee | Nonresident Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Small Game License | $ | $ |
| Conservation Stamp | $12.50 | $12.50 |
| HIP Certification | Free | Free |
Note: Exact 2025-2026 small game license fees were not specified in the search results. Check the official WGFD website for current pricing.
✅ License Requirements: Who Needs What?
- Wyoming Residents: Must have a small game license and HIP certification. Hunters born on or after January 1, 1966, must show proof of hunter education training .
- Non-Residents: Must possess a nonresident small game license and HIP certification.
- Youth Hunters: Those under 14 are not required to obtain a HIP permit if they don’t hold a valid game bird license .
- 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.
❓ Wyoming Dove Hunting FAQs
🕒 When is the best time to hunt doves in Wyoming?
The season runs September 1 through November 29, 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 Wyoming?
Focus on agricultural fields with weed seeds or grain, open gravel areas, and water sources. Eastern Wyoming’s agricultural regions are particularly productive for dove hunting.
🏞️ Can I hunt on public land in Wyoming?
Yes! Wyoming offers numerous Walk-In Areas (WIAs) and Hunter Management Areas (HMAs) through the Access Yes program. These provide public hunting access on private lands .
👕 Is blaze orange required for dove hunting?
No, blaze orange is not required for dove hunting in Wyoming, but wearing bright colors when moving between locations is always a smart safety practice.
🐕 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 the best ammunition for dove hunting?
Lightweight loads (7½ or 8 shot) work well for these small, fast-flying birds. An improved cylinder or modified choke provides an effective pattern without over-constriction.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Wyoming’s Dove Season
Wyoming’s dove season offers a fantastic opportunity to kick off your fall hunting adventures with some exciting wing-shooting action. From the warm, action-packed September opener to the crisp days of November, there’s plenty of time to enjoy this cherished tradition. Get your licenses early, scout those agricultural areas and water sources, 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!
⚠️ Verify all dates, zones, and rules with the official Wyoming Game & Fish Department before you head out. Safety first, and happy hunting!
