Dove Hunting Fun

     I went on a great opening day dove hunt in Jersey Georgia this year. Not only does opening day mean lots of doves and a great time, but the start of a new fall and hunting season. We started off the day by meeting with the rest of the hunters at Buckeye's Restaurant in Jersey and had some great southern BBQ. We signed in and drew stands and headed to the dove field at around 2:00. We were hunting in a big field planted with sorgum, Sunflowers, and cut-over wheat. I was hunting with my new Stevens 512 Gold Wing 20 Gauge and shooting Winchester Super Dove and Texas Heavy Dove loads. The doves didn't start flying good until around 4:15, which was just in time to get used to the new gun. I had struggled early but finally, I got in the zone. I shot a total of 12 doves just shy of the 15 limit.

     There are a few simple keys and mistake that dove hunters need to know. One is to lean forward when you shoot. I don't know why but it helps your accuracy a good bit. Another key is leading the bird correctly. Crossing shots you simply lead the bird a good bit at the same level. When they are flying away from you, lead in front and just under the bird and with shots coming at you, aim in front of the bird some. The biggest mistake in dove hunting, and I've learned the hard way, is not taking shots out of your range. A dove flying at 40 yard is tempting to take, but the chances to hit the dove are slim, and taking too many dumb shots will only result in wasted ammo and a hurt shoulder. Either wait for the bird to come in range or wait for a better shot; I guarantee you'll get one. 

     Dove hunting is a great way to get new people in the outdoors. You get lots of action and endless chances to make a good shot on an elusive dove. Wear some light camo and jeans and bring your favorite shotgun, lots of shells, and some friends and family and have a great time dove hunting. In Georgia there is normally 3 seasons a September, October, and November. I mostly only go on the opening days because more doves fly and they are always on weekends. Have fun hunting and God bless!