Dove, Teal and Fall Alligator Seasons Open Soon

• Dove season opens Sept. 1 in the North and Central Zones; the South Zone's Special White-winged Dove Days begin Sept. 1 at noon, and regular season in the South Zone opens Sept. 14.
• Teal season opens Sept. 15 statewide.
• Fall alligator season opens Sept. 10 in core counties.

Dove Numbers Still Soaring

Get ready to join more than 300,000 Texas hunters expected to come out for dove season this year. There will be well over 40 million doves available, so prepare for an outstanding season. 

NEW: The South Zone will open Sept. 14, a week earlier than in previous years. 

Special White-Winged Dove Days continue in the South Zone during the first two weekends in Sept., from noon to sunset. The bag limit is 15 birds per day, with no more than 2 mourning doves and 2 white-tipped doves.

Below are the regular seasons for each zone. The dates are split to take advantage of birds migrating into Texas. The daily limit is 15 birds, with no more than 2 white-tipped doves. Check the Outdoor Annual for all regulation information.

• North Zone: 9/1 to 11/4 and 12/21 to 1/14
• Central Zone: 9/1 to 11/4 and 12/21 to 1/14
• South Zone: 9/14 to 10/30 and 12/14 to 1/21

For help in timing, refer to this sunrise/sunset timetable. If you’re looking for a new spot, find a new dove area using the public hunting program. Annual Public Hunting Permits are available for $48.

What You'll Need

To plan your dove hunt, refer to the Dove Checklist for a reminder of what you'll need, including:  A valid hunting license, available at retailers, TPWD field offices, some state parks and online. Texas Migratory Game Bird Endorsement (included in the popular Super Combo license package). Harvest Information Program (HIP), a free certification you acquire when you buy a license.  Proof of Hunter Education. If you have misplaced yours, print a free copy online. And take a look at the dove identifier to learn which doves are protected.

Carter Smith’s Jalapeño Dove Poppers

Our Executive Director, Carter Smith, is an avid dove hunter. He also appreciates a tasty popper.  “Starting when I was about nine, my father would take me out of school early to dove-hunt at our Williamson County farm. I’ve been eating these poppers all my life. Our family serves them every chance we get.” Try out his family recipe for Jalapeño Dove Poppers this season.

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