The big day for many hunters is right around the corner. Dove season opens September 2 across North Carolina. The first season ends Oct. 7, with the second and third sections running Nov. 11-25 and Dec. 9-Jan. 31.
Dove season marks the traditional start of hunting seasons for many hunters, and is often when young hunters get their first experiences in the field. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reminds seasoned and novice hunters the importance of being properly licensed, to observe state and federal regulations, and to follow safe hunting practices.
Shooting hours for all three seasons are from thirty minutes before sunrise to sunset. The daily bag limit of mourning and white-winged doves of 15.
Migratory game bird hunters, including lifetime license holders, are required to register in the federal Harvest Information Program (HIP). HIP is a survey method developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to collect more reliable estimates of migratory game bird harvests throughout the country. HIP certification is available July 1 – April 1 and expires June 30 each year.
Changes to the online licensing system with the Wildlife Commission have led to some delays for new licensees, so be sure to purchase yours as quickly as possible.
Hunting of migratory game birds, including doves, by any method is not allowed on Sundays. It is illegal to dove hunt with a shotgun that can hold more than three shells, unless it is plugged with a one-piece filler incapable of removal without disassembling the gun, so its total capacity does not exceed three shells.
Hunters can purchase or renew their license and obtain their HIP certification online for immediate use in the field. Hunters can also purchase and renew their license at a Wildlife Service Agent office or call 833-950-0575 , 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.
