The Ultimate Dove Hunting Checklist for an Epic Season

Dove hunting is more than just a sport — it's a social event that brings friends + family together in the great outdoors. However, both novice and seasoned hunters may find themselves in need of new gear as their old equipment wears out.

We've compiled this complete collection of dove hunting accessories that covers all the essentials: from gear to clothing and other dove hunting accessories. Stock up and be well-equipped for a triumphant hunt!

There's nothing more frustrating on a dove hunt than realizing you've forgotten a comfortable stool, a first aid kit, or even your extra shotgun shells. Our dove hunting checklist can help you be well-prepared and create an unforgettable experience:

Shirts, pants, vests, and jackets with camouflage patterns are essential to blend into your surroundings and stay protected from the elements. The weather and time of day dictate your clothing.

• If you're hunting in the heat, opt for lightweight clothing. However, if you're setting out in the early morning hours when temperatures can be cooler, layering your clothing is a smart strategy.

• Don't forget to wear a belt. Not only does it ensure your pants stay up during your active pursuits, but it can also serve as an extra place to hang small pieces of gear.

Eye and ear protection are paramount when it comes to dove hunting. This includes gear like earplugs, shooting ear muffs, and shooting glasses.

• Yellow shooting glasses enhance contrast — making doves easier to spot against the sky.

• Ear protection shields your ears from the loud noise of gunshots.

• Choose earplugs or muffs that reduce harmful noise levels but also still allow you to hear sounds around you (like your hunting buddies' calls or warnings). This balances safety with easy communication.

Hunting boots keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout your hunting expedition.

• Given that you might be spending all day outdoors or traversing various terrains, it's best to invest in boots that offer superior comfort and support.

• Choose from ankle-high boots for flexibility, calf-high boots for added protection, or waterproof variants. Boots with a camouflage pattern can help you blend seamlessly into your hunting environment.

In regions known for snake activity, wearing snake chaps and guards is a top safety measure for dove hunters.

• These protective garments prevent snake bites from penetrating your skin. You receive an added layer of security when you're out in the wilderness.

• They cover the lower part of your legs, which are most vulnerable to snake bites. These chaps allow you to navigate snake-prone areas with greater confidence and peace of mind.

You don’t want to get caught out under the harsh sun all day without a hat. Hunting hats are available in a wide array of camo patterns.

• They provide vital protection from the sun: shielding your face and eyes from harmful UV rays and reducing glare. This can help you maintain a clear vision and stay focused on your hunt.

• When chosen in a camouflage pattern, hats contribute to your overall concealment strategy. They help blend your head into the surrounding environment — making you less noticeable to doves.

When it comes to hunting, 12 or 20-gauge shotguns are often the preferred choice due to their versatility and power.

• Semi-automatic styles have rapid-fire capabilities. This feature allows for multiple shots without manual reloading. It can also be a significant advantage when targeting fast-moving game like doves.

• The recoil from these shotguns can be substantial (especially from the 12 gauge), which is why investing in a shotgun recoil pad can be a good idea. A recoil pad can reduce the impact on your shoulder: enhancing overall comfort and preventing potential injuries.

A shotgun cleaning kit helps to keep your gun in mint condition. You can clean it before the hunting season begins and after the season ends.

• Cleaning kits typically have a variety of tools like brushes and mops. These tools help you to clean every part of your shotgun effectively.

• Many kits also include instructions — making them beginner-friendly.

• Regular cleaning not only ensures your shotgun operates smoothly. Doing so also helps prevent potential malfunctions.

You won’t get very far on your hunt if you forget to bring shotshells with you!

• When hunting doves, the typical shotshell size ranges from 7 1/2 to 8.

• Always bring extra shells with you just in case. Doves are elusive targets. You may need more shots than you actually think.

Shell bags are a convenient, accessible storage solution for your ammunition. They’re lightweight and practical for many hunters.

• Shell bags allow you to quickly (and easily) reload your shotgun, keeping you ready for action at all times.

• Many shell bags also feature additional compartments for carrying game or your water bottle.

• Some bags even have separate sections for ammunition and game: preventing cross-contamination.

Dove decoys are a strategic tool in hunting that lure doves in and provide them with a false sense of security. By using decoys, you can stay in one spot longer — increasing your chances of a successful hunt.

• There are various types of decoys available: many of which are designed for easy setup. They can clip onto branches or stake into the ground, allowing you to position them in the most effective spots.

• Decoys may not be as effective later in the season since doves become more wary. Despite this, they remain a valuable part of a hunter's toolkit: especially for early-season hunts.

When hunting, comfort is key — especially considering the long hours you might spend scoping out doves. Choosing a comfortable chair or stool can significantly enhance your hunting experience.

• These seats provide much-needed support and relief, allowing you to stay in the field longer without discomfort.

• A good hunting chair or stool is not just useful for dove hunting. You can also utilize them for future hunting trips: be it deer, turkey, or other game.

No hunter wants to deal with a grumbling stomach mid-hunt. Prepare for the day ahead by packing water and snacks.

• A camo hunting backpack is a versatile accessory that can stash your snacks, keeping them handy for when you need a quick energy boost.

• For your beverages (especially on hot days), a cooler is indispensable. It keeps your drinks cold — ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your hunting expedition.

Make sure to pack both sunscreen and bug spray in your hunting kit. Given that you may traverse through fields and spend the entire day under the sun, it's essential to protect yourself from the elements.

• Sunscreen is a must-have to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent sunburns.

• Similarly, bug spray is crucial to ward off insects that could be a nuisance or even carry diseases.

Dove hunting accessories like an orange safety vest help protect you and other hunters. It’s especially necessary when you’re hunting close to other hunters.

• An orange hunting vest is a simple yet effective safety measure that ensures you're visible to your fellow hunters. Its bright color stands out against the natural environment.

• Wear an orange vest when you're moving from your car to your hunting spot and when you're hunting in areas with high hunter density.

After a successful hunting trip, cleaning your game is the next important step. Having the right game cleaning supplies on hand can make this task much easier and more efficient.

• Essential items include a pair of sharp scissors for precise cuts, gloves to maintain hygiene and protect your hands, and a feather cleaning bucket to help remove feathers from your birds.

• These tools not only simplify the cleaning process but also ensure that your game is properly prepared for cooking.

If you're hunting with a four-legged companion, bring dog training supplies and other essentials with you.

• A water bowl helps your pup have access to fresh water throughout the hunt.

• If your dog is in training mode, practice retrieving doves with a foam dove trainer. This not only enhances your hunting efficiency. It can also provide a fun and rewarding activity for your hunting dog.

When hunting with a dog, their safety is as important as your own. If your hunting terrain includes thick brush or any body of water, a dog life jacket can provide valuable protection.

• In dense vegetation, the jacket can shield your dog's body from scratches or injuries.

• If your dog dives into the water to retrieve a dove, the life jacket ensures they stay afloat — even if they tire or the water is rough.

Weather can be unpredictable during hunting trips. Having dove hunting essentials like a camo poncho on hand can be a game-changer.

• These ponchos protect you from sudden downpours: keeping you dry and comfortable.

• These are lightweight and fold up small. Ponchos are also easy to carry in your hunting backpack without adding much weight or bulk.

• If you find yourself caught in an unexpected storm or decide to wait out the rain, a camo poncho can keep you from getting soaked.

Two-way radios are an invaluable tool for maintaining communication during hunting trips.

• They allow you to stay connected with your hunting buddies without having to raise your voice, which could potentially scare away the doves.

• With a two-way radio, you can share updates, coordinate your movements, or alert each other to potential opportunities or dangers — all while keeping noise to a minimum.

Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Having a well-stocked first aid kit can make a huge difference.

• First aid kits allow you to tackle a range of minor injuries: from bee stings and scrapes to cuts and sprains.

• Having these supplies on hand can prevent minor injuries from escalating and ensure that you can continue your hunting trip safely.

Is your current dove hunting gear wearing thin? At Academy, we're fully stocked with everything you need: from shell bags and chairs to camo hats. Replenish your gear with our top-notch dove hunting accessories so you can dive into the thrill like never before!