Question 1

When does dove season open in 2026?

Accepted Answer

For the 2026–27 season the Texas South Zone — which covers the entire Rio Grande Valley — opens September 1, 2026. The first split runs September 1 through October 25, 2026, and the second split runs December 18, 2026 through January 21, 2027. This is a major change: September 1 is now the statewide opener and the old Special White-winged Dove Days have been eliminated.

Question 2

What license do I need to hunt dove in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Every hunter needs a valid Texas hunting license plus a Migratory Game Bird Endorsement. Texas Migratory Game Bird hunters are also required to be HIP (Harvest Information Program) certified, which is a quick add-on when you buy your license. You do not need a federal duck stamp to hunt dove. Licenses are available from Texas Parks & Wildlife and license vendors.

Question 3

What is the daily bag limit for dove?

Accepted Answer

The daily bag limit in the South Zone is 15 dove in the aggregate, with no more than 2 white-tipped dove. The possession limit is three times the daily bag. With the Special White-winged Dove Days eliminated for 2026–27, these standard limits now apply across the entire season.

Question 4

Do you provide everything, or do I bring my own gear?

Accepted Answer

Bring your own shotgun (12 or 20 gauge is ideal), plenty of shells, eye and ear protection, a comfortable folding stool or bucket, and weather-appropriate clothing. We handle the field setup, scouting, and bird-cleaning logistics. If you're flying in and can't bring a shotgun, let us know in advance and we'll help with rental arrangements.

Question 5

What time are the hunts?

Accepted Answer

Dove move on a feeding schedule, so we run morning and evening hunts. Legal shooting hours during the regular season are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. We'll confirm your start time and meeting point when you book, based on where the birds are working.

Question 6

How many shells should I bring?

Accepted Answer

More than you think. Dove are fast, erratic flyers and a good Valley shoot can put a lot of birds in the air. Most hunters plan on two to four boxes (50–100 rounds) per person for a strong field. It's better to have extra than to run out mid-flight.

Question 7

Are hunts good for beginners and kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dove hunting is one of the best ways to introduce new and young hunters to wingshooting — it's social, active, and forgiving. We'll help with field position and safety. Youth hunters still need the proper license and endorsements, and hunter education requirements apply based on age, so check current TPWD rules.

Question 8

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Light weather rarely stops a dove hunt, and birds often move well ahead of a front. In the event of severe weather or unsafe conditions, we'll work with you to reschedule. We'll stay in touch leading up to your hunt date with field and weather updates.

Question 9

Do you clean the birds?

Accepted Answer

We'll get you set up so your harvest is handled cleanly and properly after the hunt. Let us know your group size and we'll make sure the post-hunt logistics — including bird care — are covered.

Question 10

Can you accommodate large groups or corporate hunts?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Group hunts are a big part of what we do, from families to corporate outings. Reach out with your dates and headcount and we'll build a hunt around your group on fields sized to handle everyone safely.

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