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Arizona Dove Basics

By

Andy Kohly

Gundog Editor and Section Leader

Arizona is without a doubt considered one of the most premier dove hot spots in the country.  It’s a safe bet however that we’ve all seen the dry spells when it appeared that no matter what, the birds just aren’t there or perhaps even more frustrating, flying just out of range.

While days like these are bound to happen, they don’t necessarily mean that there is nothing we can do to improve our odds.

Be Mobile

Doves generally follow a well defined flight path to and from feeding areas and water holes.  Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to reposition if need be.

Camo-Up

Contrary to popular belief, doves can see in color.  This means they can see your big, red sunburned face as well as all the brightly colored patches on your cap, vest and clothing.  Break out the camo and cover up.  Also, use the concealment provided by vegetation as a blind to conceal you and any movement.

Use Decoys

Of all North American game birds, Dove have the reputation of being the most responsive to decoys.  Place 6 – 12 decoys in the trees around a water hole or field and you’ll soon notice a huge difference.

Let other hunters HELP you

You heard right …  You know that crowd of hunters that have turned the day’s dove hunt into a social event?  While annoying, they can be beneficial albeit unwittingly.  Imagine a group of thrill seekers has taken up a position along a levy or edge of a field.  Watch the dove as they flare away from the mob and position yourself under their new flight path.

Pre-Season Tune Up

One of the most fundamental yet overlooked keys to success is the pre-season tune up at the local trap range.  Take the time to reacquaint yourself with your shotgun and the art of hitting a moving target……

Above all be safe!!!

We all have stories about being showered with pellets but that’s just not how it’s supposed to be. Before setting up for the day’s hunt, check the area and make sure that your field of fire is safe and that you are safely out of the field of fire of others.

All the best,

-A-