Dove Season Set to Kick Off in Lubbock — Record Bird Numbers Expected

September is almost here, and in Lubbock, that means one thing: dove season! (Well, TWO things if you count football, of course.) Hunters across the South Plains are gearing up for what Texas Parks & Wildlife says could be one of the best seasons in years.

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Thanks to mild weather and plenty of rain, dove numbers are at record highs, and food sources are looking good for a strong season from opening day through late fall. Owen Fitzsimmons, the state’s Webless Migratory Game Bird Program Leader, says hunters should even expect solid action deep into October. Translation? If you’re planning one dove hunt this year, you might want to pencil in two...or five.

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When the Seasons Open

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to get out in the Lubbock area:

• North Zone (that’s us): Sept. 1–Nov. 9 and Dec. 19–Jan. 7

• Central Zone: Sept. 1–Oct. 26 and Dec. 12–Jan. 14

• South Zone: Sept. 14–Oct. 26 and Dec. 12–Jan. 22

• Special White-winged Dove Days (South Zone only): Sept. 5–7 and Sept. 12–13, starting at noon

The daily bag limit in all zones is 15 birds, with no more than two white-tipped doves.

For teal hunters, the statewide teal season opens Sept. 20, while fall alligator season kicks off Sept. 10 in core counties.

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Hunting in and Around Lubbock

If you’re looking for a place to hunt dove near Lubbock, the state’s Annual Public Hunting Permit Program might be your ticket. For just $48, you’ll get access to more than 100 leased fields across Texas, including spots right here in the Panhandle and South Plains.

And if you’re new to dove season, Texas Parks & Wildlife has even put together a handy “Dove Checklist” to make sure you don’t leave anything behind. At the very least, you’ll need:

• A valid hunting license (digital version works)

• Texas Migratory Game Bird Endorsement

• HIP certification (free with license)

• Proof of Hunter Education (required if born after Sept. 1, 1971)

Oh, and don’t forget plenty of water — for both you and your dog.

Safety First

Finally, a reminder: know your safe zone of fire. Wandering muzzles and swinging too wide are the leading causes of accidents in Texas bird hunts. Keep track of your zone, respect your hunting partners, and stay alert.

Lubbock’s dove season opens Monday, Sept. 1st. Good birds, good fields, and (hopefully) good shooting — it’s shaping up to be a season worth remembering!