With dove season poised to commence on September 1, Texas hunters are buzzing with anticipation over increased mourning and white-wing dove populations, as reported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). However, TPWD Game Wardens stress the importance of safe and legal hunting practices. For those ready to lay claim to the title of the most popular game bird in North America, it's not merely a question of aim but also of abiding by the letter of the law.
Hunters need a valid hunting license, Migratory Game Bird Endorsement (Stamp), and Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification to hunt, according to TPWD guidelines. An Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH) offers access to over one million acres of additional land. TPWD's Hunter Education certification, valid for life and recognized in other states, helps address the issue of uninformed hunters.
As per the TPWD press release, Roel Cantu Jr., a Hidalgo County game warden, strongly suggests that "everyone stepping out into the field to hunt, whether they are exempt or not, obtain their Hunter Education Certification." Game Wardens like Kevin Frazier of Frio County warn of the quick and tragic turn simple accidents can take. Mistakes like a loaded shotgun during ATV packing or a tumble through the fields can amp up field trips to danger-level highs.
For migratory games, only shotguns are legal, with a maximum gauge of 10 and restrictions on load capacity. Drew Spencer, a Lubbock County game warden, notes these rules promote conservation and ethical hunting. TPWD stresses "know your target and what's behind it" to prevent stray shots that could cause property or personal damage.
Game wardens like Cameron Ramsey of Coleman County have seen their fair share of hunters trying to exploit bag limits, a sentiment echoed in the TPWD press release that clarifies, "Fifteen birds per day means 15 birds per day." As for bringing along future generations to pass on the hunting baton, Cody Buckaloo, a Medina County game warden, advocates for a safe and ethical introduction of hunting to children, coupled with necessary protection for all against both auditory and visual hazards.
For those tracking regulations as closely as they track doves, the TPWD's Texas Outdoor Annual mobile app and OutdoorAnnual.com are the designated waypoints for all related information.
.jpg){kind=link}