Doves on public land

Was anyone else dove hunting on public land yesterday? I escaped from work early and got a couple of hours in yesterday evening and brought home five doves. The spot I was in was really overgrown, and recovering the birds once they hit the ground was a challenge.

Pics or it didn't happen!

Mike H.
Sorry, couldn't resist, Harrier!

Any animal taken on a Texas public land hunt is a trophy -- even doves. This one and one other were my take this afternoon. Back at it in the morning. I figure since the cheaper at I've ever seen a day dove hunt advertised was $40, my $48 APH has already more than paid for itself and all other public hunting is free.

Good job. I've never tried dove hunting public land. Always figured it would get crowded.

Opening day, or the opening Saturday, are usually the most crowded but even then there's plenty of space if you're willing to arrive early and hike in away from the crowd. I was out again yesterday afternoon and there are still plenty of doves flying.

It a mater of location and most APH Dove lands are simply cow pastures its really bad up in north zone,people are not so bad in over all numbers but yeah crowds maybe on open day and weekend. Always see a couple guys that doesn't think rules apply to them. Driving past the "don't drive/park and walk" signs etc, leaving hulls etc...shooting birds that they know are falling on other side of fence.. heck even shooting wrong birds....FWIW not all birds are doves people,,,,but to be honest just to see any damn dove lil less get a shot is a good hunt on any APH in my zone! Been really bad last 3 years ,still it is outdoors and beats the hell to sitting at the house in the chair and front cpu/tv screen like I am at this moment!

I like the way you think, Harrier. Got 2 or 3 every time I've gone out and it's a bit frustrating. But when you put it that way....
I have yet to see a group larger than 3 birds this season, and that is hunting 5 times in Bell, Falls, and Milam counties.

reminds me, gotta post pic's when get ta decent net service..
Harrier... For $48.00 can't beat the price...

Great shot...thanks for sharing!

Mike H.

I went yesterday morning to a public spot in the central area that has been good for me in previous years. The kids and I got skunked. Being a shredded milo field with lots of grain on the ground I figured the place would have been swarming with birds. Kids took two shots, none for me. First front that comes through I'll be back out there.

Are there any places in the SHNF to dove hunt I'm trying to get the kids into hunting