Arizona has some of the best dove hunting.
I had a great season in 2021 and this is the time where I start looking for things that will give me the edge next season.
I currently live in the Mesa/ Gilbert area and I like to hunt doves in that general area.
Unfortunately my favorite dove field has been replaced by a brand new subdivision so I had to go out and find a few more replacement spots.
First you want to find where the dove are flying so you know where to set up to hunt.
Dove follow follow a path when they fly and need bare open ground or a a pretty open branch to land on since they have tiny little weak legs.
I like to start by positioning myself near a large water source like the canals or a river.
From there I’ll watch to see where the birds are flying. I like to hop up on a hilltop and glass the surrounding area.
If you’re near a water source in the desert you’ll see dove. The trick is to watch where they are flying to.
Once I see the direction they’re flying I like to look for a landmark, because doves tend to fly point to point following large landmarks.
Once I see the path the doves are flying I’ll go walk it to find a good place to set up.
WHen I’m looking for somewhere to set up I look for naturally choke ponts like hills or trees thatwill funnel the birds into one area.
I also look to see if they are landing anywhere already and I look for spots where they are likely to land.
They eat seeds so I’ll look for a spot with some light foliage but plenty of bare ground so that they can land.
Setting Up Your Shooting Position
Once I have found a place where I have seen the dove land I am in a flight path I’ll look for somewhere to set up.
You don’t have to hide that much to hunt dove. Basic camo and sit next to a tree or bush and hold still.
I’ll just wear some inexpensive camo clothing and that is usually more than enough.
I like to find a big bush or tree to stand by or in front of and that hides me enough. With Dove just don’t stand in the open.
I’ll set out 1-2 mojo birds and a few regular dove decoys. I’ve also been having a lot of success using the mojo dove-a-flickers.
Side Note: If you’re going to buy a bunch of decoys for dove the links above will take you to exactly what I use, but you can usually get deals right after a season ends.
I’ll set the mojo and decoys up above the ground on the highest spot so that they are easily visible from as many directions as possible.
Once you’re set up you should have some doves fly in to check out your decoys or if you’re in a busy enough flight path they’ll be flying over.
Wiat to take your shot until the dove is actually in range. If you shoot early you’re only going to injure the bird.
I try and shoot them within 30 yards that way they go down rather than just getting injured. This is why decoys can help so much.
Equipment
I typically take a 12 gauge or 20 gauge, but I prefer the 12 gauge.
I use a simple 1 oz #7.5 shot load that I reload that is pretty similar to a Winchester AA, but #7.5 or #8 shot target load is perfect for dove.
Depending on the time of the season you can get pretty close to the dove. I’ll start the season with an improved cylinder choke and switch to a modified as the doves keep more distance.
Remember to have fun and be responsible so we can continue to enjoy dove hunting.
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The Rocky Outdoorsman 