Hunting Dove In Southern California: Your Guide & Tips
Is the thrill of the hunt calling to you? Southern California offers a dove hunting experience that is unparalleled, boasting some of the best opportunities in the nation for both seasoned hunters and those new to the sport.
For those seeking the perfect dove hunting experience, the Golden State beckons. California's dove season is a highly anticipated event, and the southern regions, particularly the Imperial Valley and Colorado River Valley, are prime locations for a successful hunt. These areas, stretching towards the Mexican border, provide the ideal habitat for mourning doves, the most prevalent species in Southern California.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) plays a crucial role in managing these hunting opportunities. They maintain and prepare crop fields at popular wildlife areas throughout the state, ensuring there are ample areas to attract doves and provide productive hunting grounds for the public. For hunters, staying informed on the regulations is paramount. Dove hunting in California allows for a daily bag limit of 15 doves, with a specific limit on white-winged doves, so it is important to be aware of the specific guidelines before heading out to hunt. You should always read your regulations before heading out.
The season typically commences on September 1st, and in 2019, it continued through September 15th. Later in the year, a second hunting season provides another chance to engage with this beloved sport. The first of the opening days is quickly approaching, so be ready. This year the season will run from Sept. 15, followed by a second hunting season, Saturday, Nov.
In Southern California, the dove's behavior dictates successful hunting strategies. Mourning doves follow three key rules: They trade between food, water, and roosting locations. Hunters find them frequently around plowed or burnt wheat stubble fields. The key to a good hunt often lies in identifying the roost, the central location for these birds.
Hunters have multiple avenues for pursuing their passion. Public lands, such as the CDFWs Imperial Wildlife Area, the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and the Palo Verde Ecological Reserve, are popular options. These areas are strategically planted with food crops to draw in and sustain dove populations. Moreover, private hunting clubs offer curated experiences, often including amenities like professional handlers, dogs, and access to expansive fields with natural habitat, as well as bird processing services.
The Imperial Valley, with its unique cover and habitat, stands out. The landscape provides an unparalleled environment for dove hunting. Many hunting spots have been planted with food crops to draw and hold the doves.
This year's dove hunting season will bring hunters to the field in search of these birds. The season runs from September 1st. For many hunters, this is a time to come together and enjoy the great outdoors. Opportunities abound, from public areas to private clubs, so be ready. For anyone interested in hunting, especially those in the Golden State, it is essential to be up to date on California's regulations regarding hunting, bag limits, and specific guidelines. The CDFW website offers comprehensive information.
For those who like to explore the possibilities, you can choose from various hunting experiences to enjoy turkey hunts, dove shoots and pheasant hunts. It's also important to know that the season often opens on September 1st, and in 2019 it ran through September 15th. Later in the year, there is another hunting season.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has prepared crop fields at many of its most popular wildlife areas throughout the state to attract doves and provide productive dove hunting opportunities for the public. The state has banded about 2,700 mourning doves, and hunters are asked to report banded birds to the U.S. Geological Survey, which will help with further dove research. In Southern California, the key is the roosting area.
For those interested in a more immersive experience, private hunting clubs in Southern California provide a refined atmosphere. These clubs often offer additional amenities, such as clay shooting practice with instructions and professional handlers and dogs to help you with hunting. Hunting with private clubs means access to large private fields with great cover and natural habitat. Lunch and bird processing are frequently included. It's an excellent way to experience the best of dove hunting in California.
In Southern California, where the doves thrive, the hunting zones are the Imperial Valley and Colorado River Valley to the Mexican border. This area, rich in farmland and natural resources, offers the perfect habitat for these birds. This year, the season is on and its time for action.
For any hunter, the hunt opens a new chapter, a new experience. Public lands are great, and private clubs offer different options. Whether you choose the rugged experience of public lands or the curated environment of a private club, dove hunting in California is an experience that will be remembered for years to come. So prepare your gear, study the regulations, and get ready for another memorable season.
It is important to note that, starting in 2024, Frontera Hunting is specializing in hunts for California wild pig, utilizing exclusive hunting rights to over 40,000 acres.
The opportunities for dove hunting are vast, offering something for every level of experience. Whether it's a public land hunt or a private club experience, the goal remains the same a fulfilling and memorable experience in the beautiful landscape of Southern California. This experience begins by knowing the area and regulations, and taking full advantage of the opportunities that await in this amazing sport.
For those looking for information on specific locations, the CDFW's Imperial Wildlife Area, San Jacinto Wildlife Area, and Palo Verde Ecological Reserve are all prime choices. These areas are carefully managed to provide ideal conditions for both the doves and the hunters. Make sure to stay informed about hunting zones in the region.
