Dove hunting in Indiana is a popular pastime for many residents and visitors alike. The state offers some of the best dove hunting in the Midwest, with plenty of opportunities to bag a limit. If you’re new to dove hunting, or looking to up your game, this blog post is for you. We’ll cover everything you need to know about dove hunting in Indiana, from the best places to hunt to what gear you’ll need. Read on for everything you need to know about dove hunting in the Hoosier state.
Dove Hunting Laws in Indiana
The state of Indiana has a few laws in place regarding the hunting of doves. Firstly, the season for dove hunting is typically from September 1st to November 15th. However, this may be subject to change depending on the year. Secondly, there is a daily bag limit of 15 doves per hunter. Lastly, there is a possession limit of 45 doves per person. These limits are put in place so that the dove population can sustain itself and continue to thrive in Indiana.
Related: Deer Hunting in Indiana
Do you need a license to hunt Dove in Indiana?
In Indiana, you need a license to hunt doves, and the process is pretty simple. You can either buy a license online or at a retail location. A hunting license costs $15 for residents and $30 for non-residents. You will need to provide your personal information and contact information when purchasing a license.
You will also need to purchase a Indiana Code of Good Sportsmanship card for an additional $2. The card must be signed and dated by you, and it outlines the code of good sportsmanship that all hunters in Indiana are required to follow.
If you’re planning on hunting doves with a shotgun, you will need to get a HIP (Harvest Information Program) number. You can get this number for free from the DNR website or by calling 800-261-8366.
Dove Hunting Seasons in Indiana
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has established the following dove hunting seasons for 2020:
- September 1 – October 31
- November 14 – November 29
- December 12 – January 5
Can you hunt Dove at night in Indiana?
Yes, you can hunt Dove at night in Indiana. The best time to hunt them is just before dark when they are feeding. You will need a shotgun and shells loaded with bird shot. A spotlight can be helpful to find the birds.
Bag limits for hunting Dove in Indiana
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has set the following bag limits for hunting Dove in the state:
- The daily bag limit is 15 birds.
- The possession limit is 45 birds.
- Hunters are required to have a valid hunting license and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification.
The DNR also offers a special dove season for youths ages 17 and younger. The youth season runs from September 1-15, with a daily bag limit of 10 birds and a possession limit of 30 birds. Hunters must have completed a hunter safety course and possess a youth hunting license to participate.
Legal ways to hunt Dove in Indiana
There are many ways to legally hunt Dove in Indiana. The most popular method is using a shotgun with number 6 or 7½ shot. You will need a valid hunting license, and you must be sure to follow the bag limits for the area you are hunting in.
Another popular way to hunt Dove is with a bow and arrow. This can be a very challenging way to hunt, as Dove are very fast and agile flyers. You will need to be proficient with your bow before attempting to hunt Dove with this method.
For those looking for a more unique hunting experience, there are also several private hunting clubs that offer Dove hunts. These clubs typically have experienced guides who can help you locate and bag your limit of Dove.
Can you use dogs to hunt Dove in Indiana?
Dogs are a great tool for hunting Dove, as they can help flush the birds out of hiding and into the open. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using dogs for Dove hunting in Indiana. First, make sure that your dog is well-trained and will not chase after other animals or birds. Second, be mindful of your dog’s energy levels, as they will need to be able to work hard during the hunt. Finally, remember to pack plenty of water and food for your dog, as they will need to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that using dogs for Dove hunting in Indiana is a successful and enjoyable experience.
Can you hunt Dove from a vehicle in Indiana?
In Indiana, you are allowed to hunt doves from a vehicle as long as you follow certain guidelines. First, you must have a valid hunting license. Second, you can only hunt on land that you own or have permission to hunt on. Third, you must be using a shotgun that is 20 gauge or smaller. Lastly, you can only shoot when the bird is in flight and not sitting on the ground. If you follow these guidelines, then you should have no problem hunting doves from a vehicle in Indiana.
Final Thoughts
As the season comes to a close, there are a few things to keep in mind for next year. First, always get your hunting license early. Second, be aware of the bag limit and make sure not to exceed it. Finally, have fun and enjoy the sport!
