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5 Crucial Things To Know About The Georgia Dove Season 2024 (Dates, Fields, & Forecast)

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The official 2024-2025 Georgia Dove Season is set to kick off on the traditional first Saturday of September, bringing one of the state’s most popular hunting traditions back to the fields. This year, the opening day is Saturday, September 7, 2024, marking the start of a multi-phase season that spans nearly five months. Hunters across the state, from private fields to public Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), must be prepared for the updated regulations and licensing requirements to ensure a legal and successful hunt.

To maximize your success this season, it is essential to have the most up-to-date information on the split hunting dates, the daily bag limit, and the specific shooting hours, which have seen changes in recent years. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) has finalized all migratory bird seasons, allowing hunters to secure their licenses and scout their chosen locations well in advance of the early September opener.

The Official 2024–2025 Georgia Dove Season Dates and Structure

Unlike some other game seasons, the Georgia dove season is split into three distinct phases, allowing hunters to pursue Mourning Doves from the heat of early September all the way through the chill of January. This structure is designed to coincide with the migratory patterns of the birds through the state.

The official 2024–2025 statewide hunting dates are as follows:

  • Phase 1 (Opening Day): September 7 – October 13, 2024
  • Phase 2: November 23 – December 1, 2024
  • Phase 3: December 19, 2024 – January 31, 2025

Key Regulations: Bag Limits and Shooting Hours

Understanding the rules is paramount for a responsible hunt. The regulations for the 2024 season are consistent with recent years, but they are crucial to review before heading out:

  • Daily Bag Limit: The limit for Mourning Doves is 15 per day.
  • Possession Limit: The possession limit is 45 doves.
  • Eurasian Collared Doves: These birds are considered an invasive species and may be taken at any time, with no daily or possession limit. Hunters must be able to distinguish them from Mourning Doves.
  • Shooting Hours: Statewide shooting hours for all dove seasons are set from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Importantly, the traditional restriction of not beginning to shoot until noon on opening day is no longer the standard for private lands. However, always check specific WMA rules, as some public hunts may have a later start time.

Mandatory Licensing and Hunter Education Requirements

Every hunter age 16 and over must possess the correct documentation before hunting doves in Georgia, regardless of whether they are on private or public land. Failing to have the proper licenses can result in hefty fines.

The required licenses for 2024 include:

  1. Valid Basic Hunting License: Required for all hunters age 16 and older.
  2. Georgia Waterfowl & Migratory Bird License (State Stamp): This is mandatory for ALL migratory bird hunters, including those pursuing doves, ducks, or geese.
  3. Hunter Education: Hunters born on or after January 1, 1961, must complete a Hunter Education course before purchasing a season-long hunting license.

License costs are affordable for residents, with an annual Resident Hunting License costing approximately $15. Non-residents face a higher annual fee but can opt for a one-day permit.

2024 Dove Field Forecast: Where to Hunt in Georgia

One of the most valuable resources for hunters who do not have access to private land is the Georgia DNR’s annual Public Dove Field Forecast. For the 2024 season, the DNR has released detailed information on managed WMA Dove Fields across the state, providing a fresh and unique perspective on where the best action might be.

The state manages numerous public fields, often planted with attractive crops like millet, sunflowers, and wheat, specifically for dove hunting. These fields are found across Georgia’s five regions: Northwest, Northeast, East Central, West Central, and Southwest Georgia.

The official forecast lists the acreage of the fields, the crops planted, and a predicted forecast for opening day success. Hunters are strongly advised to check the Georgia DNR's Wildlife Resources Division website for the latest 2024-2025 WMA schedule and field conditions, as some areas may require a quota permit or have specific shooting times.

Opportunities for Youth and Novice Hunters

Georgia’s commitment to passing on the hunting heritage is evident in its dedicated Youth Dove Hunt programs. These events are specifically designed to introduce young hunters (age 16 or younger) to the sport in a safe, mentored environment.

For the 2024 season, specific Youth Dove Hunt and Learn events are scheduled, such as those occurring on September 13–14, 2024. Many of these hunts are held on managed public lands, including those managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, such as the Richard B. Russell Project.

It is crucial to note that many of the most popular public fields, especially for opening day, are managed as Quota Hunts. Hunters must apply for these hunts by a specific deadline, which is typically in mid-August. Always check the official quota hunt schedule to ensure your child has a spot on these premier fields.

Preparation Tips for a Successful 2024 Dove Hunt

Dove hunting is a fast-paced, social, and exciting way to kick off the hunting season. Proper preparation is key to a rewarding experience in the field.

  • Scout Your Field: If hunting private land, scout the area a few days before the opener. Look for power lines, roosting areas, and feeding zones. For WMA fields, check the DNR’s 2024 Field Forecast for the most current conditions.
  • Ammunition: Doves are small, fast targets. Use smaller shot sizes, typically 7 ½ or 8 shot, to maximize pellet count and pattern density.
  • Hydration and Shade: Early September in Georgia is often hot. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a comfortable seat or bucket. A small amount of camouflage or dark clothing is also recommended to help you blend into the field edges.
  • Safety First: Always follow the "Hunter’s Safety Code" and be mindful of other hunters in the field. Never shoot low or at a dove flying over another hunter.
  • Clean Your Gun: Ensure your shotgun is clean and in good working order. A three-shot limit is enforced for migratory birds, so ensure your gun is plugged to accept no more than three shells (one in the chamber, two in the magazine).

With the official dates and regulations confirmed, the 2024 Georgia dove season promises to be a memorable one. Secure your licenses, review the WMA forecast, and get ready for the September 7th opener.

5 Crucial Things to Know About the Georgia Dove Season 2024 (Dates, Fields, & Forecast)
dove season ga 2024
dove season ga 2024

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