Dove hunting is a popular sport in Washington state, with many hunters taking to the fields each year in pursuit of these fast-flying birds. While doves are not as large as some game birds, they can be challenging to hunt due to their speed and agility. If you’re thinking of giving dove hunting a try, there are a few things you should know before heading out. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of dove hunting in Washington, including seasons, regulations, and where to find the best hunting spots.
Dove Hunting Laws in Washington
The close season for dove hunting in Washington is from June 1-September 15. Outside of this season, it is legal to hunt doves with a valid hunting license. There are a few things to keep in mind when hunting doves in Washington:
- Doves may only be taken with shotguns that are plugged in to limit the capacity to three shells.
- It is illegal to shoot doves on or over any baited area. Baited areas include, but are not limited to, grain fields, haystacks, livestock feedlots, and fruit orchards where food has been placed to attract doves.
- Doves may not be hunted by an automobile or other motorized vehicle.
- It is illegal to use recorded bird calls or noises to attract doves.
Related: Deer Hunting in Washington
Do you need a license to hunt Dove in Washington?
In the state of Washington, you do not need a license to hunt a dove. However, there are certain regulations that you must follow in order to hunt legally. For instance, you must have a valid hunting permit if you plan to hunt on public land. In addition, you must adhere to the bag limits set forth by the state.
Dove Hunting Seasons in Washington
The dove hunting season in Washington typically runs from September 1st through December 31st. There are a few areas where the season may be different, so be sure to check with the local wildlife department before heading out.
Dove hunting is a great way to spend an afternoon, and it can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Just be sure to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the state of Washington.
Can you hunt Dove at night in Washington?
Hunting Dove at night is not allowed in Washington. The general season for hunting Dove in Washington runs from September 1-October 31.
Bag limits for hunting Dove in Washington
The daily bag limit for dove in Washington is 10. The possession limit is 20. There is no closed season for hunting doves in Washington.
Dove hunting is a popular sport in Washington state. The daily bag limit is 10, and the possession limit is 20. There is no closed season for hunting doves in Washington, so hunters can enjoy this activity year-round.
Legal ways to hunt Dove in Washington
In Washington, there are several ways that you can legally hunt Dove. The most common way is with a shotgun, but you can also use a bow and arrow, or a crossbow.
If you want to use a shotgun, you will need to get a hunting license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. You will also need to purchase stamps for waterfowl hunting. These can be bought at any sporting goods store or online. Once you have these items, you can find a place to hunt Dove. There are many public areas where Dove hunting is allowed in Washington.
If you want to use a bow and arrow or crossbow, you will need to get a special permit from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. This permit allows you to hunt during the special archery season. You can find more information about getting this permit on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
Once you have all of the necessary permits, you can start planning your Dove hunt. Make sure to check the regulations for the area where you will be hunting so that you stay within the law. Have fun and be safe!
Can you use dogs to hunt Dove in Washington?
Dove hunting is popular in many parts of the country, and Washington is no exception. While Dove can be hunted with a variety of methods and weapons, using dogs can be a great way to increase your chances of success. Dogs can help to flush out birds that are hiding in brush or trees, and they can also retrieve downed birds that might otherwise be lost.
If you’re interested in using dogs for Dove hunting in Washington, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to obtain a special permit from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Permits are typically issued on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to apply early.
In addition to a permit, you’ll also need to make sure your dog is properly trained for Dove hunting. Dogs that have not been trained specifically for hunting may not be able to perform well in the field and could even become a danger to themselves or other hunters. There are several reputable dog trainers in Washington who can provide the necessary training.
Once you have your permit and your dog is properly trained, you’re ready to start hunting Dove in Washington! Remember to follow all state and federal regulations while hunting, and always use safe hunting practices. With a little preparation, you and your dog can enjoy a successful Dove hunt together.
Can you hunt Dove from a vehicle in Washington?
In Washington, you can only hunt doves from a vehicle if you have a valid handicap permit. If you do not have a valid handicap permit, you will need to get out of the vehicle and hunt from the ground.
Final Thoughts
Dove hunting is a challenging but rewarding sport that can be enjoyed by hunters of all ages. Washington state offers some of the best dove hunting in the country, with plenty of opportunity to bag a limit of these tasty birds.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time hunter, be sure to do your homework before heading out into the field. Know the regulations, brush up on your shooting skills, and most importantly, have fun!
