Dove hunting season is just around the corner in Michigan! If you’re looking to add a little excitement to your fall hunting routine, doves are a great game bird to pursue. Although they may be small, these little birds can put up quite a fight. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about dove hunting in Michigan. From regulations to the best times and places to hunt, read on for all the info you need to get started.
Dove Hunting Laws in Michigan
Dove hunting is regulated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The season runs from September 1-November 14, with a two-bird daily limit and a possession limit of six birds.
hunters must have a valid hunting license, and those 16 years of age or younger must also have completed a certified hunter safety course. Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Baiting is not allowed.
Doves can be hunted on public or private land, but permission must be obtained from the landowner before hunting on private property.
Read More: Deer Hunting in Michigan
Do you need a license to hunt Dove in Michigan?
In Michigan, you need a license to hunt doves. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sells two types of licenses for dove hunting: a base license and an upland game bird license. The cost of the base license is $11 for residents and $6 for non-residents. The upland game bird license costs an additional $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents. You can purchase a license online at the DNR website, at a licensed vendor, or at any DNR office.
Dove Hunting Seasons in Michigan
The first two weeks of September are the early dove season in Michigan. The regular season runs from the third Saturday in September through November 9. The late season is from November 10-30.
Dove hunting is allowed only on land that is open to public hunting and controlled by the DNR. dove hunts are not allowed in state game areas, state parks, or national forests. For information about specific sites, contact the site manager listed on the DNR website.
In order to hunt doves in Michigan, you must have a valid Michigan hunting license and a HIP (harvest information program) certification. You must also comply with all federal regulations regarding migratory bird hunting.
Can you hunt Dove at night in Michigan?
Dove hunting is a popular sport in Michigan, but many hunters are unaware that it is also legal to hunt dove at night. There are a few things to keep in mind when planning a night hunt, such as obtaining the proper permits and using appropriate lighting.
With the right planning and equipment, hunting dove at night can be a great experience. The challenges of tracking and taking down prey in low light can make for an exciting hunt. Follow these tips to ensure a safe and successful night hunt.
First, check the regulations to make sure night hunting is allowed in the area you plan to hunt. Some public hunting areas do not allow hunters to use artificial lights, so be sure to check before you head out. Next, get the proper permits if required. In Michigan, anyone born after 1960 must have completed a Hunter Safety Course before they can purchase a hunting license.
Once you have the necessary paperwork in order, it’s time to start planning your hunt. If you are new to night hunting, it’s a good idea to go with someone who has experience. That way you can learn about proper lighting techniques and how to stay safe while tracking games in the dark.
When choosing a light for your hunt, look for one that is bright enough to illuminate your target but not so bright that it will spook the game. A headlamp with red LEDs is a good option since it will help you see without disturbing your prey. You’ll also need a
Bag limits for hunting Dove in Michigan
The bag limit for hunting dove in Michigan is 10 birds per day. For more information on Dove Hunting in Michigan, please visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.
Legal ways to hunt Dove in Michigan
In Michigan, there are three legal ways to hunt doves: with a shotgun, bow, and arrow, or air rifle.
Shotguns must be 20 gauge or larger and capable of holding no more than three shells in the magazine and chamber combined. Lead shots cannot be used to hunt doves. Only nontoxic shots, such as steel, bismuth-tin, or tungsten-iron can be used.
The use of bows and arrows to take doves is only allowed during the September dove season. The minimum draw weight for bows is 40 pounds. Arrows must be equipped with sharpened broadheads that have at least two cutting edges. Crossbows may also be used, but the minimum draw weight for crossbows is 125 pounds.
Air rifles (.177 caliber or larger) may also be used to hunt doves during the September season. The air rifle must use compressed air or nitrogen with no more than 12-foot pounds of energy at the muzzle.
Can you use dogs to hunt Dove in Michigan?
Yes, dogs can be used to hunt dove in Michigan. There are a few things to keep in mind, however. First, the dog must be well-trained and under the control of the hunter at all times. Second, the dog must be able to safely retrieve the bird without damaging it. Third, the use of dogs is not allowed during the first week of the season.
Can you hunt Dove from a vehicle in Michigan?
In Michigan, you can only hunt doves from a vehicle if you are mobility-impaired, have a valid hunting license, and are registered with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). If you meet these requirements, you can purchase a special permit that allows you to hunt doves from a vehicle.
Final Thoughts
As the season comes to a close, we reflect on our time spent hunting doves in Michigan. We had some great successes and some not-so-great moments, but overall it was a great experience. We are already looking forward to next season and hope to improve our skills even more.
We want to thank all of our readers for following along on our journey this year. We look forward to bringing you more content next season, and in the meantime, we hope you enjoy the rest of your fall hunting!
