The third and final segment of Tennessee’s 2012-13 dove hunting season is now underway. The final segment began on Dec. 19, and will continue through Jan. 15, 2013.
The daily bag limit is 15. There is no limit on collared doves. Doves not readily identifiable as collared doves will be considered mourning doves and will count toward the mourning dove daily bag limit. No person shall take migratory game birds by the aid of baiting, or on or over any baited area. Any auto-loading or repeating shotgun must be incapable of holding more than three shells while dove hunting.
Doves are found throughout the various regions in the state, but the most concentration is in farming areas. The hunter must have on his/her person a valid state hunting license and Tennessee Migratory Bird Permit at all times while hunting. Hunters must have landowner’s permission to hunt on private land.
More information on Tennessee’s dove season can be found on the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website (www.tnwildlife.org) under the “For Hunters” section. The 2012 Tennessee Hunting & Trapping Guide can also be viewed on the website or a copy may be obtained at any TWRA regional office or wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold.