Make plans now for the cooler, late-season opening on Nov. 20
Contributed Article/Courtesy AZGFD
PHOENIX — Legal sunset today will close Arizona’s early dove season, but it’s far from the end of dove hunting for the year. Mark your calendar for Friday, Nov. 20 — that’s the day the late dove season kicks off.
For some of the finest wing-shooting Arizona has to offer, the second dove season is not to be missed.
While the bigger white-winged doves, prized during the traditional 15-day season in September, will have long since migrated to Mexico, the more acrobatic mourning doves will remain abundant and widespread.
The late season is also longer, running through Jan. 3, 2027, and is often much less crowded.
With fewer hunters and significantly cooler weather, the late season is a great chance to spend a little extra time in the field, enjoy the outdoors, and scout for a roost or feeding area. The state’s agricultural areas will still be a good bet, particularly those that grow small grain crops. Keep an eye out for Eurasian collared-doves — they remain common during the late season and, because they’re invasive, there’s no daily bag or possession limit on these birds.
The early season goes by quickly—make plans now to take advantage of everything the late season has to offer and enjoy another chance to hunt doves this year.
Thank you, dove hunters!
Dove hunters play an important role in conservation. Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) program funds consist of excise taxes collected on the sale of hunting and fishing equipment (including 11 percent on ammunition), the benefit of which comes right back to Arizona for habitat improvements, shooting ranges, boating access, and more.
Volunteer Opportunity
Don’t want to wait until the late season for more dove-related activities? Volunteer for the Yuma Dove Hunt Clean-up event! Volunteers are meeting at Sprague’s parking lot at 6 a.m. on Sept. 19 and plan to work until 10 a.m. Gloves, trash bags, water, and area maps will all be provided. Email Louis at lscott@deloutdoor.com if you’re interested in joining the fun and helping out.
