Dove hunting season is just around the corner and this season’s going to be extended by 20 days–to 90 days.
In fact, this season will be the longest dove hunting season Texas has seen in 80 years.
“I’m hoping at least five the first time,” said Austin Dyer, who has hunted before.
“Whenever I was younger I’d go with my dad and I’ve just gotten into it,” he adds.
But never has Austin hunted dove. Until this year.
“It’s a whole lot smaller and they fly a whole lot faster. It’s harder to get your gun up and aim for them.”
What better year to start honing his dove hunting skills because this year, Austin and other dove hunters will have 20 extra days added to the season.
“It’s a result of having a good population of birds.as well as hunter opportunities,” Texas Parks and Wildlife game warden, Eddie Hood said. “A lot of times in October and November you have the cool fronts coming through up north that pushes birds down to the south.”
“This will give them an opportunity to hunt some of those northern birds.”
As you can imagine, longtime dove hunter’s, like Elaine Schultz, are happy to hear they’ll have more days to hunt.
“Woo hoo! [laughs] I was totally happy,” Schultz admits. “It was like you got your income tax check back and it was doubled. It’s just awesome!”
“There’s going to be a lot more birds this year, a whole lot more birds. They were nice enough to extend it another 20 days which is perfect.”
Perfect, because it gives hunters the opportunity to get more birds. And also allows first-timer’s, like Austin, a way to get in on all the fun.
“I just want to pass it on to people who have never done it that once they get out there and try it, they’re going to feel the same way I do,” Schultz said. “I promise you.”
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Dove Hunting Season Dates
North Zone
Sept. 1 – Nov. 13
Dec. 17 – Jan. 1
Central Zone
Sept. 1 – Nov. 13
Dec. 17 – Jan. 8
South Zone
Sept. 23 – Nov. 13
Dec. 17 – Jan. 23
