Updates on Statewide Dove Quota Hunts and Dove Field at Dinner Island Ranch WMA

Dear Dove Hunters,

The FWC has a couple updates regarding limited-entry (quota) dove hunts statewide and the dove field at Dinner Island Ranch WMA.

Dove Quota Hunts

Beginning this season, all dove quota hunts will be combined into one application. Currently, each field (Caravelle Ranch, Frog Pond, Hilochee, and Punta Gorda) has its own separate application. Applicants will be able to select up to five choices and receive up to one permit in Phase I. Phase II will remain first-come, first-served for any remaining permits. Dove quota permits will continue to be transferable.

Dove Field at Dinner Island Ranch WMA

We are unable to plant crops in the dove field at Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area in Hendry County for the 2025-2026 hunting season. However, we remain committed to offering public hunting opportunities on the area. Although the field will be left fallow for the 2025-26 season, we will mow strips in it periodically to promote foraging opportunities for doves on naturally occurring seeds. We originally planned to issue quota permits for dove field hunts using a random online drawing; however, the quota permit requirement for the dove field will be removed and dove hunting will be allowed on Saturdays during the statewide mourning and white-winged dove season (a quota permit would still be required if hunting during any quota period). We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission