Bagging Birds: A Beginners Guide to Dove Season in Colorado

Tip #1: Know Colorado’s Dove Hunting Regulations

Before heading out, familiarize yourself with current Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations. Make sure you have the appropriate licenses and understand current season dates, bag limits, possession limits, and other requirements. Regulations can change, so always check the latest CPW information before your hunt.

Tip #2: Scout Before You Hunt

Successful dove hunting starts with finding the birds. Doves commonly travel between feeding, watering, and roosting areas, so scouting these locations can improve your chances. For beginners who don’t want to figure everything out alone, booking your next hunt with an experienced guide can make getting into the field much easier. Here at Longmeadow we offer guided hunts perfect for beginners, so if you are local don’t hesitate to give us a call!

Tip #3: Practice Your Wingshooting

Doves are small, fast, and unpredictable. Before Dove Season, you should spend time practicing and honing your shooting skills with moving targets. Sporting clays can help you work on tracking birds, establishing the proper lead, and following through, which are all skills that translate directly to the dove field.

Tip #4: Bring the Right Gear

Dove hunting for beginners doesn’t require an enormous gear list. Bring a dependable shotgun, appropriate ammunition, eye and ear protection, water, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. A small stool or bucket can also make waiting for the next flight more comfortable. Don’t know where to start with gear? Come try a guided hunt at Longmeadow and figure out what you like and don’t like, plus receive plenty of tips from our expert guides on how to outfit yourself appropriately.

Tip #5: Stay Safe and Enjoy the Hunt

Always know where other hunters are positioned, maintain a safe shooting zone, and never take a shot if you’re unsure what’s beyond your target. Essentially, always follow the four rules of firearms handling, and be sure to listen to your guide or more experienced friends/family members. Don’t get discouraged by misses, either. Doves can challenge even experienced wingshooters, and improving is part of the fun!