By Johnny Marquez

As sportsmen, we know that hunting is so much more than simply an opportunity to harvest an animal.  It’s a time to appreciate the outdoors, share traditions, spend time with friends and family, enjoy extended stays at a hunting camp if we are lucky and share the bounty of a hunt.  Not many hunts exemplify all these qualities quite like the opening day of dove season.  It’s more than just an opportunity to take to the fields; it’s a time-honored tradition that brings together families, friends and communities.  The opening day of dove season often serves as the unofficial end of summer and the start of fall, as many sportsmen shift their focus from fishing to hunting.

A Tradition Passed Down Through Generations

For many, dove hunting is a rite of passage that begins in childhood, and with September fast approaching, hunters are getting ready for a big opening day weekend.  Families often pass down opening day traditions from one generation to the next, with young hunters learning the ropes from seasoned veterans. On opening day, it’s common to see fathers teaching their sons and daughters the importance of safety, how to shoot, respect for the wildlife and the joy of being outdoors. This mentor-mentee relationship fosters a deep appreciation for nature and instills values that resonate throughout life.

Gathering of Friends and Family

On opening day, the excitement is palpable as hunters arrive, equipped with shotguns and gear, ready to share a hearty breakfast and take to the field. The smell of coffee brewing and the sound of laughter fill the air, creating a festive atmosphere. Each group brings its own traditions, from specific recipes for a big hunting camp breakfast to unique ways of celebrating successful hunts.

As hunters settle into their spots, the conversations continue until the quiet morning is punctuated by the first shotguns ringing out as the doves take flight, zig-zagging across the field and signaling the start of the hunt. The social aspect of dove hunting is as important as the act itself.  It provides an opportunity to share the hunt with family and friends, deepen friendships and make new connections. Dove hunts help to build a connection with the land and its wildlife, instilling in new hunters an instant love for the sport and reminding veteran hunters of the importance of preserving these precious resources for future generations. 

The Post Hunt Celebration

Without a doubt, one of the most fun aspects of a good opening day hunt for many is the celebration afterwards.  These gatherings can range from a modest lunch to a full-on throwdown, with a huge spread of game, seafood, burgers and barbecue, accompanied by live music and all the trappings of a festival. These celebrations, large and small, allow everyone to participate in the day, whether they carried a shotgun into the field, helped with the prep for the gathering or just came to share in the celebration.  It’s undoubtedly one of the best ways to share and strengthen our hunting heritage.

Introduce  a New Hunter

Dove hunting is the perfect introduction for first-timers looking to get into wingshooting.  It lays the basic foundation for the other upland disciplines and provides a laid-back and enjoyable experience.  The action can go from zero to sixty in nothing flat, and there is plenty of opportunity for instruction.  Be sure to bring along a new hunter to your opening day event and help them learn to love hunting and appreciate our great outdoors.