There are a lot of exciting days in the year, but for me, opening day of dove season is hands down one of the best. Dove hunting is a tradition that combines community, competition, and fellowship, and it always starts with a warm-up round of clay shooting. This year was no exception, we kicked things off with our friends, a wobble trap machine, and plenty of laughter before heading into the fields.
Warming Up with Clay Shooting
If you've never tried clay shooting before a hunt, you're missing out. It's not just practice, it's part of the fun. We set up the wobble trap, which launches clay pigeons in unpredictable patterns, testing our reflexes and accuracy.
Clay shooting is a great way to prepare for the fast, erratic flight of doves, but it's also where my competitive side comes out. We usually play a few shooting games before lunch, including one of my favorites: Knockout.
In Knockout, everyone lines up, and you only get one shot at your clay. If you miss and the person behind you hits the same target, you're out. The strategy is all about timing, precision, and maybe a little friendly sabotage. I'll admit, I get ruthless in this game, but it makes for a lot of laughs and some bragging rights before the real dove hunt begins.
The Heart of Dove Hunting: Fellowship and Tradition
In Tennessee, dove hunting season doesn't start until noon on opening day, which gives us time to enjoy a full morning together. We shoot clays, tease each other about misses, and then share a big lunch before heading to the field around 2:00 p.m.
That's when the real anticipation sets in. The birds usually don't start flying until later in the afternoon, so everyone gets settled in their spots, gear ready, and eyes on the sky. For me, dove hunting isn't just about the number of birds we bring home, it's about the camaraderie. Friends, family, and neighbors all come together to share the day, and by evening, we're cooking what we hunted, swapping stories, and sometimes even breaking out the guitar for a little music.
The Dogs That Make It Special
Of course, dove hunting wouldn't be the same without the dogs. This year, we had Maverick, Murph, and Milo, each with their own personality and retrieving style. Watching them work the fields is a joy in itself. Maverick, still young, showed off his energy and drive, while Murph impressed everyone with his water retrieves. Milo, the "dove dog of the day," may not have gone to the field, but his presence (and his charm) stole plenty of hearts.
These dogs aren't just hunting partners; they're family. Seeing them excited to do their job reminds me why dove hunting is about so much more than just the hunt, it's about the bond we share with the animals, too.
Safety and Preparation
No day in the field is complete without a reminder about safety. We used custom earplugs from Decibullz to protect our hearing during clay shooting and while hunting. It's something I always stress: you can't get your hearing back once it's gone, and dove hunting can get loud fast.
Along with safety, preparation matters. Wearing the right gear, especially neutral colors that blend with the field, helps keep you less noticeable to the birds. While dove aren't as sensitive as deer or turkey, being mindful of visibility still makes a difference.
Ending the Day with Dove Poppers
After the hunt, the tradition continues with food. We prepared dove poppers: bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with dove breast, cream cheese, and gouda. Some people like the fancy version with all the extras, while others (like my dad and I) prefer the simplicity of just dove and bacon. Either way, it's a meal that brings everyone to the table, and that's what matters most.
As the evening wound down, we shared burgers, barbecue, and music under the stars. For me, that's what dove hunting is really about: fellowship, family, and gratitude. The birds we bring home are a blessing, but the memories we create together are the true prize.
Why I Love Opening Day
Every year, I'm reminded why opening day of dove hunting is my favorite day of the year. It's a mix of competition with clay shooting, the thrill of the hunt, the loyalty of our dogs, and the warmth of gathering with the people I love most.
At the end of the day, it's not about limits or trophies, it's about tradition. And as long as we keep honoring that tradition, I'll always look forward to the first day of dove season.
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